Dutch Tourists Rescued After Google Maps MisadventureDutch Tourists Rescued After Google Maps Misadventure A Dutch family embarking on a scenic drive in their camper encountered a harrowing ordeal when they followed Google Maps directions. Their vehicle, unsuitable for the rugged terrain, led them into a remote area of the Okanagan backcountry, from which they were ultimately rescued. The family’s misadventure began as they navigated from Penticton towards Myra Canyon. Google Maps steered them onto Forest Service roads that proved too challenging for their recreational vehicle. As the terrain became increasingly treacherous, the camper suffered bumps and struggles. As nightfall approached, the family managed to regain cell service and reached out for assistance. The Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) organization responded promptly and located the family near the Dog House snowmobile cabin. With eight members on the scene, COSAR escorted the tourists to safety on the Myra Forest Service Road at approximately 9:30 p.m. The rescue marked COSAR’s 51st task in 2024, highlighting the organization’s unwavering dedication to ensuring the well-being of those in need. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about blindly following navigation apps in unfamiliar territory. Choosing vehicles capable of handling challenging roads and being prepared for unexpected circumstances is essential to minimize the risk of similar incidents.
A family of Dutch tourists in a camper had to be rescued after following Google Maps
A family of Dutch tourists had to be rescued from the Okanagan backcountry after following Google Maps directions from Penticton to Myra Canyon in their recreational vehicle.
The family was traveling in an RV that was “not up to the task” of driving on the Forest Service roads in the area, the Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) organization said in a Facebook post after the rescue.
After a bumpy ride, the family was able to get cell service around 6:30 p.m. and called for help. COSAR located the family near the Dog House snowmobile cabin, located between Hydraulic Lake and Myra Canyon.
Eight COSAR members responded and escorted the family to the Myra Forest Service Road at 9:30 p.m.
The extraction was COSAR’s 51st task in 2024.
