Rescue — Mount Garfield, Dec 30, 2014
Two 19-year-old males from Saco, Maine · party of 2
Two hikers attempting the Falling Waters/Bridle Path Loop mistakenly took the Garfield Ridge Trail from the summit after encountering strong winds, then realized they could not exit before dark without proper equipment. They called 911 at 4:00 PM and Conservation Officers directed them to the Garfield Trail and escorted them out, reaching the trailhead at 7:20 PM. The hikers lacked gear to travel after dark or spend the night in winter conditions.
What we can learn
Fish and Game officials stressed that it is critically important to pack for winter conditions and be prepared for the worst, as the White Mountains have had winter conditions, snow, and ice for some time regardless of conditions elsewhere in the state.
Contributing factors