An 89-year-old hiker, Bing Olbum, has astonished many by surviving nearly 10 days in Idaho's treacherous wilderness.

CNN reported that Bing Olbum was found virtually unharmed after a long search, carrying minimal supplies and relying on his mental resilience.

Bing Olbum embarked on what was supposed to be a five-day hiking adventure in the vast Salmon-Challis National Forest, starting from the Hunter Creek Trailhead on August 1.

The forest, known for its rugged terrain and high elevations, would test the limits of any seasoned adventurer.

Bing planned a relatively light journey with only 19 pounds of survival gear. His essentials included a one-man tent, a blanket, beef jerky, salted nuts, a pad, iodine tablets for water purification, a compass, and a map to navigate the difficult landscape.

He was scheduled to finish his hike at the McDonald Creek Area on August 5.

However, when he didn't emerge from the forest, concerned friends and family reported him missing the next day, initiating a massive search effort.

Extensive Search Operation Commences

The search for Bing Olbum was no small task. Custer County Search and Rescue, the Idaho National Guard, and a private pilot's helicopter were deployed.

Additionally, Idaho National Laboratory assisted by providing drones to search from above, scanning the dense forest for signs of Olbum.

With no trace of him for five days, the search teams began to lose hope. Eventually, on August 11, local volunteers on horseback found Olbum early in the morning.

He was discovered in a state of mild dehydration and soreness but otherwise in good health considering his ordeal.

Incredible Survival Against the Odds

"The odds of anybody surviving that period out in the wilderness area is very unlikely," remarked Lincoln Zollinger, Custer County Search and Rescue Coordinator. This sentiment was shared by many involved in the rescue operation.

Olbum's ability to extend a five-day food supply over nearly ten days was notable.

"Just having so few supplies, five days' worth of food, stretching it out that far is just amazing, in everybody's eyes," Zollinger added.

Bing credited his survival to mental fortitude and setting continuous small goals. "Well, it was mostly my mind to keep going, to keep setting goals and keep moving forward," he explained through Zollinger.

Why This Story Matters

This story highlights the importance of mental resilience and preparation. Bing Olbum's remarkable survival is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

It serves as an educational example for the community, especially for those who venture into nature, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of wilderness travel.

Bing's story inspires us all, showing that age is just a number when it comes to survival in the wild.

In summary, Bing Olbum's journey into the Idaho wilderness turned from a regular hiking trip into a remarkable survival story, driven by his minimal supplies and strong will. His experience underlines the importance of preparation, mental strength, and the value of community effort in search operations.