URGENT UPDATE: A 57-year-old visitor from New York City was rescued after becoming lost in the wilderness of Ulster County on December 3, 2023. The hiker’s perilous situation unfolded as night fell quickly in the rugged terrain of Samuel’s Point, prompting a major winter rescue operation.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the hiker was navigating toward the summit of the challenging Slide Mountain Wilderness when their cell phone signal dropped, leaving them stranded without a map. As temperatures plummeted, the hiker became disoriented among thick brush and rocky landscapes, highlighting the dangers of winter hiking in the Catskills.
Desperate for help, the hiker utilized their phone’s satellite messaging feature to send a distress text to a friend in New York City. The friend, realizing the urgency of the situation, promptly alerted 911. DEC Rangers were dispatched and swiftly worked their way through difficult conditions to locate the lost hiker at 7:45 PM.
Once found, the hiker was cold, hungry, and exhausted. Rangers provided warm layers and food before guiding them safely back to the patrol vehicles, with everyone reaching safety by 9:00 PM. This incident underscores the critical importance of being prepared, especially as winter conditions set in across the region.
Rangers are urging hikers to check weather and trail conditions before embarking on any outdoor adventure. Even short hikes can become treacherous as icy or snowy conditions can appear unexpectedly. The DEC emphasizes that safety measures are essential for anyone planning to explore the Catskills this winter.
For more winter safety tips and guidelines, visit the DEC’s official website and stay informed before heading into the wilderness. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of outdoor activities during this season.
