Family stranded overnight in Big Cottonwood Canyon, 2 children in critical condition

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Two children are in critical condition after a family went hiking up Big Cottonwood Canyon and were subsequently reported missing on Saturday, according to the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

On Saturday, Oct. 11, a 31-year-old man and his three children — a 2-year-old boy, a 4-year-old boy, and an 8-year-old girl — went for a hike near the area of Broads Fork Trail up Big Cottonwood Canyon. The family was later reported missing.

The family’s vehicle was found at the Broads Fork parking lot, officials said, prompting an emergency response in the canyon.

Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office, DPS Aero Bureau, and Life Flight responded and began aerial search efforts. First responders were able to find the missing family Sunday morning after having been stranded overnight.

The father is in fair condition, officials said. Two children are in critical condition, and one child is in stable condition.

This remains an active investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.