Crime & Safety
Maine Hiker Rescued By Helicopter In Dangerous Weather Conditions
Patrick Bittman of Portland, ME, was rescued from a New Hampshire mountain while suffering hypothermia after attempting to watch a sunrise.
FRANCONIA, NH — A solo hiker was rescued from below the summit of Little Haystack Mountain on Franconia Ridge yesterday after spending a night stranded in the harsh winter conditions.
Conservation officers received a call at 8:15 am on Thursday from a hiker in distress. The hiker, identified as Patrick Bittman, 28, of Portland, Maine, reported suffering from hypothermia and being unable to move due to several feet of snow and freezing temperatures. Wind gusts exceeding 30 mph made the situation became critical.
Bittman's location was pinpointed at approximately 1,000 feet off-trail and 4,300 feet in elevation. Conservation officers and Pemi Valley Search and Rescue volunteers immediately responded, reaching the Falling Waters Trail by 10 a.m.
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Franconia Notch area experienced cloudy skies and snow squalls. The National Guard was contacted for a possible airlift, but due to limited visibility, they could only approach the hiker within a quarter-mile before being forced to retreat.
Rescuers faced a challenging trek, battling thick vegetation, steep terrain, and deep snow. It took them over an hour to reach Bittman. He was treated on-site for hypothermia before a rescue litter was prepared to transport him.
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Fortunately, the cloud cover lifted around 3 p.m., allowing the National Guard to return. A medic was lowered, and Bittman was successfully hoisted into the helicopter by 3:15 p.m. He was immediately transported to Littleton Regional Healthcare, arriving before 3:30 p.m.
This dramatic airlift prevented a lengthy and risky ground evacuation, showcasing the exceptional teamwork between various search and rescue teams in New Hampshire.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of winter preparedness, officials said. For any trek in the mountains, hikers are strongly encouraged to carry the ten essentials: a map, compass, warm clothing, extra food and water, headlamp, fire starter, first-aid kit, whistle, rain/wind gear, and a knife.
For more information on hiking safety, visit hikeSafe.com.
