Two men from Oregon tragically lost their lives in a Washington state forest after embarking on a quest to find the elusive Sasquatch, local authorities reported on Saturday.

The victims, aged 59 and 37, were discovered in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, a region famed for its dense woods and mountainous terrain, located about 150 miles (240 kilometers) northeast of Portland. According to the Skamania County Sheriff's Office, it appears they succumbed to exposure due to adverse weather conditions and their lack of proper gear for such an expenditure.

The search commenced on Christmas Day when a family member reported them missing at 1 a.m. after the duo did not return from a Christmas Eve adventure. A massive search effort was mobilized, involving sixty dedicated volunteer search-and-rescue personnel alongside canine units, drone operators, and ground teams. The U.S. Coast Guard even deployed infrared technology to aid the search from the air.

While the quest for Sasquatch—a legendary creature long whispered about in local folklore—has garnered both intrigue and skepticism, this situation serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers of venturing into the wild unprepared.

Authorities utilized camera footage to pinpoint the vehicle parked off Oklahoma Road, a key location near the southern border of the national forest, ultimately leading them to the area where the men were found.

Search-and-rescue teams urge outdoor enthusiasts to prioritize safety and preparedness, especially during winter months when conditions can escalate quickly. Local officials are conducting an investigation to gather more information about the circumstances surrounding the men's final outing, reinforcing the importance of caution in wilderness exploration.

This unfortunate event not only highlights the risks associated with such adventures but also brings to light the ongoing fascination with cryptids like Sasquatch, a creature that continues to spark the imaginations of many despite the dangers that such a search might entail.