ANOTHER missing hiker was found by emergency services in the Grampians on Friday, only a few weeks after Parks Victoria put out a warning message about the dangers of hiking.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said emergency services located the missing hiker early Friday evening after she became lost on Thursday while hiking in the Grampians, near Halls Gap.

“We are pleased to advise a missing hiker in the Halls Gap area has been located safe and well (Friday) afternoon around 5pm,” they said.

It was believed the young woman was hiking alone in the Mount Rosea area on Thursday when she became lost and contacted her mother that evening, who then informed emergency services at about 10pm.

Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) volunteers have been kept busy over the past nine weeks, completing around fifteen separate search or rescue operations in the Grampians National Park, the Lerderderg State Park, and the Werribee Gorge State Park.

In their warning message at the start of the month, Parks Victoria district manager, Jodi Heath, said with the shorter days in Winter, hikers should stay to marked tracks, as well as tell someone where they are going and when they expect to return.

“Research your hikes using trusted information sources, hike within your abilities and follow marked trails and signage to reduce your chances of getting lost or injured,” she said.

Parks Victoria also encouraged hikers to dress for the conditions and pack plenty of food, water, spare clothing, a fully charged smart phone, torch, map, and first aid kit so they are prepared for all scenarios.

Information on how to remain safe while hiking can be found at parks.vic.gov.au