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RescueOutcome: Rescued by SARWater crossing

Rescue — Owl's Head, Oct 24, 2009

·Owl's Head·Franconia Brook Trail

Two adult women, ages 30 and 46, from Massachusetts · party of 2

Erin Tiernan (30) and Monica Trust (46) became stranded on an 18-mile loop to Owl's Head peak in the Pemigewasset Wilderness after rising water on Lincoln Brook prevented their return. They bushwhacked to the Franconia Brook confluence but wisely declined to cross the swollen river, spending the night out with proper equipment. Search teams located them the following morning and used a rope traverse to bring them to safety.

What we can learn

Hikers should follow the hikeSafe Responsibility Code and always be aware of changing or foul weather conditions and the possibility of swelling brooks during periods of heavy rain.

Contributing factors

Ignored forecast
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 Owl's Head →

Other recorded incidents on Owl's Head

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