Exhausted Hiker in the Slide Mtn Wilderness (Sep 20)

[dave]

Wilderness Rescue in Town of Denning in Ulster County:

On Sept. 20 at 11:30 p.m., Ulster County 911 contacted Ray Brook Dispatch about an overdue hiker in the Slide Mountain Wilderness Area. The caller stated the hiker was planning to hike Table, Peekamoose, Lone, Rocky, Balsam Cap, and Friday Mountains, but was not prepared to spend the night. Forest Rangers Horn, Martin, and Stratton responded with Ulster County Sheriff's Deputies. The last communication with the hiker was from the summit of Peekamoose at 11:40 a.m. At 2:20 a.m., Ranger Martin located the 55-year-old from Fishkill on the Fisherman's path, approximately 2.5 miles from the trailhead. The hiker was in good health but extremely fatigued, admitting they misjudged the distance and intensity of the hike. The subject became disoriented on Friday Mountain after their phone died, which was their only source of navigation. Rangers provided food and water and assisted the hiker to the trailhead. Resources were clear at 5:15 a.m.

While apps and maps on the phone can assist with navigation, batteries often die in the wilderness which is why Rangers suggest always traveling with a map and a compass, and backup charger.