A hiker on Wittenberg Mountain in New York’s Catskills required a ranger response on April 27th after suffering an allergic reaction to tree nuts found in their trail mix.
According to the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, at 3pm a member of the Pine Hill Fire Department contacted Forest Ranger Martin to report a hiker experiencing the reaction. Rangers Franceschina and Martin responded to the scene alongside a Shandaken Emergency Medical Technician.
The hiker, who has a tree nut allergy, was unaware their trail mix contained tree nuts. The reaction produced hives and swollen lips.
Rangers reached the hiker on the trail at 5:15pm. By that point, symptoms had already begun to subside. The rangers then escorted the hiker to the trailhead, where Shandaken Emergency Medical Services conducted an evaluation. The hiker declined further medical treatment. All resources were cleared by 6:16pm
Wittenberg Mountain sits within the Catskill High Peaks region and is a popular destination for hikers pursuing the Catskill 3500 list. The incident is a reminder to always check ingredient labels on packaged trail foods before heading out, particularly for those managing food allergies. Pre-packaged trail mixes frequently contain tree nuts or are processed in facilities shared with nut products.
