A 44-year-old hiker’s reckless decision making turned a casual afternoon trek into a rescue operation in New York’s Shawangunk Ridge State Forest serving as a stark reminder that nature doesn’t forgive poor preparation.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation reports a forest ranger a call for a lost and injured hiker in the Shawangunk State Forest on July 25th at 4:30 pm. The man who hails from New Paltz, New York began at the Cox Road trailhead at 1:45 pm with the intention of hiking a long ridgeline path that looped back to his starting point.
The hiker decided to take on the trail barefoot and did not bring any food or water despite temperatures topping out at 85 degrees. After falling a couple times and losing his orientation, the hiker decided to call for help.
The forest ranger was able to contact the hiker and obtain his location before his phone battery died. The forest ranger and Cragsmoor Fire Department arrived with nourishment and helped the man back to the trailhead. Ellenville EMS evaluated the man and determined the hiker was dehydrated and had elevated blood pressure but he declined further medical care.
Related: Hiker Stranded On Tiny Ledge Rescued By Utah Helicopter Team
About Shawangunk Ridge State Forest:
The 1,411-acre Shawangunk Ridge State Forest includes a section of the 71-mile Shawangunk Ridge Trail and 356-mile Long Path that give spectacular views of the surrounding valley, as well as numerous unmarked multiple use trails which are open to non-motorized recreation.
- Open for recreation: Year-round
- Fee: Free
Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety
Practice Leave No Trace Principles when recreating on state land to enjoy the outdoors responsibly; minimize impact on the natural resources and avoid conflicts with other users.
All users of Shawangunk Ridge State Forest must follow all State Land Use Regulations and should follow all Outdoor Safety Practices for the safety of the user and protection of the resource.
