It’s still October, but don’t forget that fall can bring ample amounts of snow to Colorado.

According to the Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office, a search and rescue mission that took place on October 27 involved two hikers who were missing during a snowstorm near Echo Lake. Echo Lake is located at about 10,600 feet of elevation near the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway, which places it in a zone where weather can be quite unpredictable, seemingly capable of changing at a moment’s notice.

The hikers, a 60-year-old mother and her 25-year-old son, were expected to return the day prior, and when they didn’t, the duo was reported as overdue.

Dozens of searchers from Alpine Rescue Team entered the field, joined by Douglas County Search and Rescue and multiple canines from Front Range Rescue Dogs. Drones were also utilized in an aerial search.

During the initial hours of the search, the Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office asked the public for “positive thoughts,” noting that it was currently snowing in the Echo Lake area and that temperatures had fallen.

Thankfully, good news was announced at 7:15 p.m. on October 27 – the missing hikers had been found and were safe at Evans Ranch.

This situation goes to show how it’s important to plan ahead when it comes to Colorado’s unpredictable weather. Weather in the high country can quickly change, making it crucial to not only check the forecast on the day of an excursion, but also to prepare for the unexpected by packing extra layers. Bring along the ‘10 essentials‘ too.

Learn more about how you can help support Colorado’s volunteer-powered search and rescue operation here.