Photo: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Curtis Ng
An 81-year-old hiker from Golden, B.C., was found dead in Waterton Lakes National Park after a week-long search along the Great Divide Trail.
Search Ends in Tragedy for B.C. Hiker
An 81-year-old man from Golden, B.C., who set out to hike the Great Divide Trail, has been found dead in the mountains of southern Alberta after an extensive week-long search.
Search crews located the hiker’s body on Thursday in Waterton Lakes National Park. Alberta RCMP confirmed the discovery on Friday and shared their condolences with his family and friends.
Officials have not released the official cause of death or publicly identified the man. However, Parks Canada previously named him as Bob Toothill while search efforts were underway.
Hike Took a Tragic Turn
Toothill began his journey on July 16 and planned to finish near Coleman, Alta. When he failed to arrive as expected a week later, authorities launched a large search operation.
Ground crews, aircraft, search dogs, and drones all worked together to cover the rugged backcountry. At the same time, Parks Canada urged volunteers to stay away because the steep and remote terrain posed serious risks.
As the search continued, crews found several personal belongings along the trail. Those discoveries helped narrow the search area and guided teams to the final location.
Family Shares Heartbreaking Details
After the search ended, Toothill’s daughter, Natalie Neustaedter, shared more information in a Facebook post. She said her father died after a sudden slip and fall while hiking near Lineham Ridge on the Great Divide Trail.
Although the family is grieving, they expressed relief that search teams found him and that they can now bring him home.
She described her father as someone who truly loved the outdoors.
“Bob loved the outdoors—in many ways, he lived for it,” she wrote. “It is a heartbreaking irony that the place he loved most is where he spent his final moments.”
Challenging Terrain Along the Trail
The Lineham Ridge section of the Great Divide Trail challenges even experienced hikers. The roughly 20-kilometre route climbs through rugged mountain terrain and rewards hikers with sweeping views of Rowe Valley, Upper Rowe Lakes, and the Lineham Lakes.
Because of its steep slopes and remote location, the trail demands careful planning, strong hiking skills, and constant attention to changing conditions.
Authorities Offer Condolences
Following the discovery, Alberta RCMP extended condolences to Toothill’s loved ones. Parks Canada also expressed sympathy to everyone affected by the tragedy.
The heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder that even experienced outdoor enthusiasts can face unexpected dangers in Canada’s mountain wilderness. Therefore, careful preparation, awareness of trail conditions, and respect for changing terrain remain essential for anyone exploring remote backcountry routes.
