The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department intends to bill four unprepared 18-year-old hikers from New Jersey after they required rescue along Franconia Ridge in Franconia on Friday, August 14th.
4 Rescued on Franconia Ridge
The request for help came in to the department around 8:48pm, reporting that one of the hikers was having difficulty breathing and was experiencing sore legs. The hikers were contacted to gather more information and rescuers learned that the group was low on water and food, did not have lights, and was not properly dressed for the weather conditions.
Five volunteers from Pemi Valley Search and Rescue Team and a Conservation Officer responded to the trailhead where they began hiking up the mountain at 10:35pm. Volunteers hiked more than 4.2 miles to Franconia Ridge and then to Mount Lincoln where they made contact with the hikers at 1:15am on Saturday morning.
The unprepared individuals were given lights, food, water, and warm clothing before the rescue crew guided them to the summit of Mt. Lafayette and then down the Old Bridal Path back to the trailhead. At 9:07am on Saturday morning, they arrived back at the trailhead.
Unprepared Hikers Will Receive a Bill
The four individuals, all 18 years old and from New Jersey, had started their hike at 3:30pm. They did not have headlamps or enough food to complete the 7- to 9-hour hike. Because of their lack of preparation, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department does plan on sending them a bill for the cost of the rescue.
It’s getting closer to fall, and that means the days are getting shorter and the temperatures are getting colder. As such, those planning to be outdoors and hiking should ensure they’re prepared with the proper gear, clothing, and plenty of food and water. New Hampshire hikers are encouraged to purchase a Hike Safe card at www.wildnh.com/safe to support FIsh and Game search and Rescue activities.