© CBS5SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -
The father of a 28-year-old autistic man who barely survived three weeks in remote southern Utah said his son was an experienced mountaineer but was out of his element in the harsh desert.
John LaFever told The Associated Press that his son, William, made one crucial mistake: setting off for a 150-mile journey along the Escalante River without food or equipment that was apparently stolen before his trip got underway.
Authorities said William LaFever apparently didn't realize the distance involved with his plan to hike from Boulder, Utah, to Page, AZ.
The father said William LaFever is recovering from starvation and dehydration and is being treated at a southern Utah hospital.
John LaFever said he's thanking God his son was found Thursday by a Utah Highway Patrol helicopter.
Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved.
