New York Hiker Airlifted After Accident at ‘Dangerous’ Waterfall

An upstate New York hiker was in serious condition after a fall at a local destination that's been described as both "breathtaking" and "a very dangerous place".

It's been a busy week for forest rangers with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, including a duo that looked like action heroes while they rescued a young, unconscious hiker in Keene, NY (below). Just four days later, first responders were called to Split Rock Falls.

Split Rock Falls in Essex County, NY

Split Rock Falls in Elizabethtown, NY (not to be confused with the clothing-optional Split Rock in the Hudson Valley), is a series of waterfalls and natural swimming pools that attract nature-lovers from across the state. There's also a dark side to its beauty.

Beautiful but Dangerous Split Rock Falls in Elizabethtown, NY

"The falls are breathtaking... [but] stay away from the falls when the water is rushing as it can be a very dangerous place", cautioned one frequent visitor. "The falls are beautiful and there were a lot of people in the water. Be aware that some of the hike is a bit steep", offered another.

Hiker Injured from Fall at Split Rock Falls

The latest New Yorker to be injured at the popular destination, the NYS DEC shared, was a hiker from Peru, NY. The severity of the injuries to their head and neck required a specialized rope rescue of the subject who was immobilized in a litter (below).

The NYS DEC rangers were joined by the New York State Police as well as multiple local fire departments to complete the rescue. The 50-year-old hiker was then airlifted to a nearby hospital to receive treatment.

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There's no offseason for first responders, and forest rangers, police officers, firefighters, and other emergency professionals work tirelessly to help New York residents of all kinds. Check out some of the more nontraditional operations below.