One dead in busy weekend for rescuers in B.C.'s Sea to Sky backcountry

A helicopter from Blackcomb Helicopters is seen below the Stawamus Chief in this photo shared by Squamish Search and Rescue.

SQUAMISH — Police in British Columbia’s Sea to Sky region are again urging backcountry users to be prepared after five rescue calls this weekend, including one fatality.

RCMP say there were calls on Saturday at Sky Pilot, Tricouni Peak, the Howe Sound Crest Trail, and a waterfall east of Britannia Beach.

In the Britannia Beach case, police say a 31-year-old man died of his injuries but provided no further details.

North Shore Rescue says in a Facebook post that the call involved a person “in cardiac distress below a waterfall.”

There was a fifth rescue call on Sunday, when a hiker reported getting hurt in the Shannon Falls area.

North Shore Rescue says at least two cases required a helicopter, including the rescue of two climbers on Tricouni Peak.

Police say rescuers were able to respond quickly in every case because two involved SOS satellite communication devices, while the others happened within cellular service range.

“We have far too many examples of calls in our backcountry that go wrong each and every year, but knowing how to call for help, what to do when help is needed, or what to do when the rescue teams are en route is critical,” Sea to Sky detachment Staff Sgt. Sascha Banks says in a statement.

“Before heading out, please ensure you’ve researched your trip, are equipped with the proper gear, and have a reliable way to call for help — just as those involved this past weekend did.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 23, 2026.

The Canadian Press