A hiker who was barefoot and had no food or water had to call New York forest rangers for help while hiking last Friday.
According to New York Department of Environmental Conservation officials, forest rangers received a report of a lost and injured hiker in the Shawangunk State Forest at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, July 25.
The 44-year-old hiker from New Paltz had reportedly started hiking from the Cox Road trailhead at 1:45 p.m. and planned to hike the Long Path on the ridge and loop back.
Officials said the hiker was barefoot and did not bring any food or water despite temperatures reaching 85 degrees.
After falling a couple of times and getting lost, the subject called for help.
Rangers reached the hiker by cell phone and obtained a location before the hiker’s battery died.
Rangers and members of the Cragsmoor Fire Department located the hiker, provided nourishment, and assisted the hiker back to the trailhead.
Ellenville EMS determined the hiker was dehydrated and had elevated blood pressure, but the patient declined further medical care. Resources were clear at 5:30 p.m.
