BIG INDIAN – Two injured hikers from the same group were rescued by first responders after they were injured while in Ulster County.
State Department of Environmental Conservation officials said on minutes after noon on January 15, 911 requested forest ranger assistance with the rescue of a hiker with a lower leg injury at Giant Ledge in the Slide Mountain Wilderness Area.
Rangers Franke, Quinones, Schweider, and Stratton reached the 70-year-old and splinted her lower leg. Rangers then packaged the hiker from Pennsylvania into a litter.
Big Indian, Claryville, and Pine Hill fire departments assisted with the half-mile carry out. At approximately 4:30 p.m., the hiker was taken to the hospital by Shandaken EMS.
During the incident, Rangers Franke and Schweider were rerouted to respond to another injured hiker from the same hiking party, but closer to the trailhead.
The 71-year-old suffered a head injury from a fall and was airlifted to the hospital.
Trail conditions were icy and rangers needed microspikes during the rescues.
Hikers are reminded to be prepared for winter conditions.
Tips on how to pack and prepare for a winter hike are available on DEC’s Facebook page.
