Two Unprepared Massachusetts Hikers Rescued From New Hampshire Mountain
Conservation Officers with New Hampshire Fish and Game were alerted to two hikers who had gotten lost on the trail as they worked their way down from the summit of Mount Lafayette last Friday, December 12th, at around 9:45pm.
One hiker had injured his leg in a fall and claimed he could not continue. The individuals were still above tree line and were exposed to heavy winds, temperatures around 10°F, and waist deep snow. Unfortunately the duo had lost their composure and would not listen to any advice provided to them.
A rescue party made up of volunteers from the Pemi Valley Search and Rescue Team and Conservation Officers started the near 4-mile hike up to the individuals at around 11:25pm. The hikers continued to make period calls, with one hiker suffering from severe hypothermia and fading in and out of consciousness. While a helicopter rescue crew was assembled by the Army National Guard in Concord, they were unable to reach the hikers because of cloud coverage sitting around 3,700 feet.
Finally, at 2:45am on December 13th, the first rescue team arrived on site. They were able to warm the hikers and provide them with additional clothing. By 3am, the group had begun working their way back to the Greenleaf Trail. The reported leg injury wound up being less significant than had been reported.
By 5:30am, the party arrived at the trailhead and and the Army National Guard Helicopter returned to Concord upon learning that the group did not require assistance. The two individuals, one 35 and one 41, were able to drive themselves to a hospital to be treated for frostbite.
New Hampshire Fish & Game points out that the two lacked appropriate clothing for a hike in the winter weather they encountered, were navigating with a phone when they lost the trail, and departed for a near 9-mile loop at 1pm in the afternoon. While winter hasn’t officially begun, winter conditions are very much present in the White Mountains. If you’re going to hike, hike prepared. Follow the responsibility code set forth by HikeSafe, or don’t hike at all.
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