A solo rock climber was rescued from approximately 500 feet above the ground at Whitehorse Ledge in New Hampshire on Sunday morning after reaching a point where he was uncomfortable continuing up or down the cliff.
New Hampshire Fish and Game received a call for assistance shortly after 8 a.m. on October 25. The climber had been ascending Whitehorse Ledge alone and without a rope when he reached a spot where he no longer felt comfortable proceeding. He managed to find a secure location and call for help.
Nine Rescuers Climb Cliff to Reach Stranded Climber
Conservation officers, members of the Mountain Rescue Service, and North Conway Fire and Rescue responded to the incident in Hales Location, New Hampshire.
Nine volunteers from the Mountain Rescue Service quickly coordinated a technical rescue operation. The team climbed up to the stranded climber, secured him, and established ropes extending back down to the base of the cliff.
The climber and rescuers were able to descend safely, returning to the ground shortly before 10 a.m. The operation was completed in approximately two hours, with no injuries reported in the press release.
The Mountain Rescue Service is a volunteer search and rescue organization whose members maintain the technical skills and specialized equipment needed to conduct challenging rescues throughout New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Reminds Outdoor Enthusiasts About Rescue Funding
New Hampshire Fish and Game noted that the response was funded through revenue from the state’s Hike Safe Card program and its Search and Rescue Fund. The agency emphasized that hunting, fishing, and trapping license fees are not used to pay for search and rescue missions.
Outdoor enthusiasts can purchase a Hike Safe Card to help support search and rescue operations. The agency also encourages hikers and climbers to prepare properly before heading outdoors and familiarize themselves with essential safety equipment and precautions.
More information about outdoor safety and the Hike Safe program is available at HikeSafe.com. Donations supporting the volunteer Mountain Rescue Service can also be made through the New Hampshire Outdoor Council.