Danbury Hiker Rescued From New Hampshire Trail After Overnight Ordeal

DANBURY, CT — A Danbury woman was rescued Sunday morning after spending a cold and treacherous night on the upper levels of the Great Gulf Trail in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

Katherine Hudson, 30, became exhausted Saturday evening and fell several times while descending a steep rock scree field near 4,600 feet elevation, according to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department. Though she initially texted 911 to report her condition without requesting an immediate rescue, a follow-up message early Sunday indicated she was cold and feared hypothermia.

New Hampshire Conservation Officers accessed the trail from the summit via the Mount Washington Auto Road and descended the slippery terrain to locate Hudson. Officers found her in the same location as her original 911 message. She was given warm fluids, food, and dry clothing before beginning the hike back up to safety.

The rescue team and Hudson reached the Auto Road by 11:30 a.m.

Officials credited Hudson's preparedness for helping her endure the night.

Authorities said her physical exhaustion and the risk of serious injury from continuing down the rocky slide were the key factors prompting the rescue.