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RescueOutcome: Self-rescuedMedical

Rescue — Mt. Carrigain, Nov 11, 2023

·Mount Carrigain·Desolation Trail

22-year-old male hiker from Newport, NH · party of 2

On November 11, 2023, Nathan Stark, 22, called 911 from the Desolation Trail near the summit of Mt. Carrigain reporting frozen feet and inability to continue on the last day of a multi-day hike. His hiking partner returned and got him moving, but they hiked an 8-mile loop away from rescuers rather than the shortest route out. Both hikers arrived at the trailhead shortly after 5:30 p.m. without SAR extraction.

What we can learn

Winter conditions are already present in the White Mountains; conditions at trailheads will not be an accurate predictor of conditions found at higher elevation.

Contributing factors

Novice in winter terrainInadequate 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 →

Other recorded incidents on Mount Carrigain

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