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RescueOutcome: Rescued by SARLost

Rescue — Mount Lafayette, Jan 20, 2007

·Mount Lafayette·Old Bridle Path

24-year-old male from Merrimack, NH · party of 3

Brian Gagnon, age 24, became separated from his two hiking companions on Mt. Lafayette on January 20, 2007, while the group encountered treacherous winter conditions. He survived two nights near the summit in subzero temperatures with whiteout conditions, suffering frostbite to his feet and hands. He was found on January 22 by search teams ferried to the summit by Army National Guard helicopters and was airlifted to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.

What we can learn

Having good winter hiking and camping equipment probably saved Gagnon's life; hikeSafe.com advises always keeping a hiking group together.

Contributing factors

Off trailInadequate traction
Before you head out: check the forecast, carry the Ten Essentials, leave your plans with someone, and be willing to turn back. See current conditions for Mount Lafayette →

Other recorded incidents on Mount Lafayette

Part of the WMNF Hiker Incident Database. Every entry cites a primary or near-primary source; details are refined as the record is reviewed.