Chad Hunter, a 23-year old University of  Tennessee student who was reported missing by his family has been safely airlifted out of the park.

Hunter left for a backcountry hike into the Great Smoky Mountains on Monday, March 14 but when he failed to return at a predetermined time his family contacted park officials and reported him missing. On Sunday 25-30 searchers set out in the area where Hunter was believed to be hiking to begin the rescue effort.

On Sunday night  Hunter made a cell phone call to park officials after finding his way to the Tricorner Knob Shelter on the Appalachian Trail.  Three park rangers hiked in early Monday, and treated Hunter for hypothermia, minor injuries and dehydration. A medic, brought in by helicopter, examined Hunter and  decided that he should be airlifted out. He was taken to a hospital for further medical evaluation.

Hunter told rangers that he got lost after venturing into a rhododendron thicket and getting disoriented.