Overdue Hikers Located Safely in Town of Hunter Wilderness Search

HUNTER, N.Y. — A wilderness search conducted early Tuesday morning in the Town of Hunter concluded safely after two overdue hikers were located in good condition, according to authorities.

At approximately 1:15 a.m. on March 31, Greene County 911 requested assistance from Forest Rangers to locate the hikers, who had failed to return as expected. The reporting party advised that their last contact with the pair was at about 4:30 p.m. on March 30.

Forest Rangers Fox and Peterson began their response by locating the hikers’ vehicle at a parking area along Platte Clove Road. After continuing the search on foot, rangers found the hikers at approximately 4:00 a.m. at the Echo Lake lean-to.

Officials determined that a miscommunication regarding the planned duration of the hike led to the concern. After being assessed and found to be in good condition, the hikers chose to pack up and hike out of the area with assistance from the rangers.

All search resources were cleared by 8:30 a.m., and no injuries were reported.