Stranded hikers rescued from swollen High Peaks stream

NORTH ELBA | An unanticipated sudden stream swelling forced four hikers from Adirondack Loj to call for help during an early-spring hike April 1. When the company of four hikers started out from the Adirondak Loj trailhead earlier in the day, they were able to ford Indian Pass Brook easily, but on their return hike, found that the day's warm temps had hastened snow melt to the point where the stream was now chest high and running swiftly. They were forced to call Ray Brook Dispatch for help at about 7:30 p.m. after their search for a low spot to safely pass failed to materialize. Rangers advised them to make a fire to keep warm until a rescue crew could reach them. Though it had been warm, temps were rapidly dropping down to the teens. In all, six rangers responded. Using an inflatable kayak and ropes, they pulled the hikers across the rushing icy water one by one. With a ranger stationed upstream to watch for any large chunks of ice that might break free and endanger the group, another was positioned farther downstream in the event someone was swept into the brook. At about 1:10 a.m. — more than five hours after the call for help was placed — hikers and rescue crew made it back to the trailhead without further incident. RESCUE PROMPTS SAFETY REMINDERS One of the dangers of hiking during mud season is how quickly snow can melt and cause waterways to swell. For more information on spring recreation safety tips, visit dec.ny.gov/outdoor. And for tips on how to properly prepare for backcountry adventures, visit dec.ny.gov/outdoor/backcountry and dec.ny.gov/outdoor.

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Stranded hikers rescued from swollen High Peaks stream

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