Two teenage hikers had to be rescued from Mount Moosilauke in New Hampshire after becoming stranded in deep snow without essential gear.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department described the hikers, ages 17 and 18, as unprepared for the winter conditions. Despite having warm clothing, they lacked snowshoes and headlamps, which made it difficult to navigate the snow-covered trails.
A Challenging Winter Hike
The teens set out at 1 p.m. on Thursday, attempting to complete a 7-mile loop via the Snapper Trail.
Mount Moosilauke, the tenth highest peak in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, is known for its stunning views but also for its challenging winter conditions.
As they hiked deeper into the wilderness, they encountered waist-deep snow, making progress slow and exhausting.
Without snowshoes, each step became a struggle, and as daylight faded, they found themselves in complete darkness without headlamps.
Emergency Call and Phone Failure
At 6:42 p.m., the hikers managed to call New Hampshire Fish and Game for assistance, reporting their difficulty moving through the deep snow.
They also mentioned that their cell phone batteries were low, making their situation even more dangerous.
During the call with a conservation officer, their phones died, cutting off all communication.
Rescue Efforts and Self-Rescue Attempt
For nearly an hour, there was no contact between the hikers and authorities. Fortunately, they later found a portable battery charger in their gear, allowing them to make another 911 call at 7:45 p.m.
By then, they had reached a packed-out trail and were attempting to self-rescue by following it back toward safety.
Rescue and Recovery
At 8:38 p.m., conservation officers located the hikers near the Moosilauke Ravine Lodge, a Dartmouth-owned facility that is closed for the winter.
The teens were cold but otherwise unharmed. Officials stated that if the hikers had been better prepared—with snowshoes and headlamps—they likely would have avoided the need for rescue.
Safety Reminders for Winter Hikers
Following the rescue, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department emphasized the importance of carrying the Ten Essentials for any hiking trip, especially in winter. These include:
- Map and Compass – Essential for navigation
- Warm Clothing – Layers for insulation
- Extra Food and Water – To sustain energy
- Headlamp and Batteries – To navigate in the dark
- Fire Starter – To provide warmth in emergencies
- First Aid Kit – For medical emergencies
- Whistle – To signal for help
- Rain/Wind Jacket and Pants – For protection against elements
- Knife – A versatile survival tool
Officials also reminded hikers that winter conditions require additional preparation and that trails can be much harder to navigate in deep snow, cold temperatures, and early nightfall.