Ice Rescue at Popular Waterfall in Upstate New York

Forest Rangers jumped into action earlier this week to rescue two hikers who were stuck on the ice near a popular hiking waterfall in upstate New York.

Most of the folks reading this wouldn't think the middle of February would be a good time to plan a hike into or anywhere near one of the highest waterfalls in New York State. Unfortunately, not everybody thinks the same way, and when people decide to hike in icy conditions without the proper gear this is oftentimes the result.

Hikers Get Stuck on Ice in the Catskill Mountains

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), Forest Rangers were called to action to assist two hikers who were hiking near Kaaterskill Falls on Monday, February 17th. DEC Forest Rangers Commerford, Fox, and Peterson responded to a call asking for assistance for two inexperienced hikers who reportedly got stuck on ice at the lower falls of Kaaterskill Falls in the Catskill Mountains.

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According to the Rangers, the hikers had never hiked the popular hiking trail located between Haines Falls and Palenville, New York in Greene County before and weren't equipped with the necessary equipment including a light source, proper winter gear, or traction devices for their boots.

Forest Rangers Rescue Two Hikers

Once Rangers were able to locate the two hikers they provided each of them with traction devices and headlamps so they could safely make their way back to where they started. While the Rangers assisted them back to their vehicle they also "educated" them on the "hiking essentials" hoping that a situation like this wouldn't happen again.

10 Things Every Hiker Must Have While Hiking in New York

According to the DEC website, there are "10 Hiking Essentials" that everyone should have with them on all hikes for a safe and enjoyable experience. The 10 Essentials include:

• Navigation - Map, Compass, GPS system, and Extra batteries.
• Insulation/Rain Gear - Waterproof/windproof jacket, Hat, Gloves, Thermal
• undergarments, Wool socks, and a Face Mask and Goggles in the winter.
• Light - Headlamp, Flashlight, and Lanterns.
• First Aid Supplies - Use a pre-made kit or build your own.
• Emergency Kit - Whistle, Signal mirror, Duct tape, Pocket knife/multi-tool, Bright colored cloth.
• Fire - Matches in a waterproof container, Lighter, and Fire starters.
• Nutrition - Choose high-protein and high-calorie items, and Pack extra food.
• Water - Pack at least 2 liters per person and always carry more than you think you will need.
• Sun and Insect Protection - Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Hat, Bug Repellent, Bug Net
• Emergency Shelter - Tent, Space Blanket, and a Tarp.

For more information on how to safely hike in New York check out the DEC online here.