New Hampshire officials have issued a warning cautioning hikers to be aware, prepared, and responsible ahead of Memorial Day Weekend.
New Hampshire Fish and Game officials issued the warning Tuesday, May 19, saying some higher elevation areas still have snow and ice.
Memorial Day weekend is the traditional start of the busy summer hiking season in New Hampshire, and the weekend often sees an uptick in rescues.
“People must always take personal responsibility as they head out by acknowledging their physical limitations, being aware of changing weather conditions, and knowing when it’s time to turn back,” said New Hampshire Fish and Game Law Enforcement Chief Colonel Kevin Jordan. “Some locations at higher elevations are still holding snow and may require microspikes or even snowshoes to cross. It is imperative that people enjoying New Hampshire’s natural resources exercise a high degree of caution. Unsafe and irresponsible behavior also puts first responders at extreme risk of injury.”
While warmer temperatures have taken hold at the lower elevations, hikers have continued to run into trouble in the mountains. In April, a hiker who officials said was not prepared for cold, snowy conditions was found dead on the Kinsman Pond Trail in Lincoln. Days later, two hikers who officials said were unprepared for the conditions were rescued on Mount Liberty.
Colonel Jordan strongly recommended that hikers and outdoor enthusiasts be prepared by carrying with them the 10 essentials for changeable weather conditions and unanticipated emergencies which include:
- Map
- Compass
- Warm clothing:
- Sweater or fleece jacket
- Long pants (wool or synthetic)
- Hat (wool)
- Extra food and water
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Matches/firestarters
- First aid kit/repair kit
- Whistle
- Rain/wind jacket and pants
- Pocket knife
Officials encourage outdoor enthusiasts to purchase a voluntary Hike Safe card for 2026. Card proceeds help defray the costs of training and of search and rescue equipment for Fish and Game Law Enforcement Conservation Officers, preparing them to come to your aid if the unexpected happens.
2026 Hike Safe cards cost $25 for an individual, or $35 for a family, and are good for the calendar year ending December 31, 2026. The price is the same for both residents and nonresidents.
Cards can be purchased online at www.wildnh.com/safe and at New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Headquarters, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH.
Purchasing a hunting or fishing license also provides you with the same protection as a Hike Safe card. In addition to Hike Safe card revenues, Fish and Game’s Search and Rescue Fund is supported by a $1 fee collected for each boat, snowmobile, and OHRV registered in New Hampshire.
