Injured Hiker on Mt. Chocorua

CONTACT:
Lt. Bradley R. Morse
603-744-5470
603-271-3361
April 14, 2023

Albany, NH – At 12:38 p.m. on Thursday, April 13, 2023, New Hampshire Fish and Game responded to a call for assistance from an injured hiker on Mt. Chocorua in Albany. Holly Sullivan, 54, from Jackson, NH, was hiking the Piper Trail in Albany to the summit of Mt. Chocorua. She slipped and injured her ankle and was unable to bear weight so she called 911 for assistance. Sullivan was only accompanied by her dog. New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers responded along with members of the US Forest Service, Lakes Region Search and Rescue (LRSAR), and Mountain Rescue Service (MRS).

Rescuers hiked to Sullivan’s location, approximately 3.2 miles from the trailhead. They stabilized her and placed her in a rescue litter to be carried down the trail. The difficulty of the carryout was compounded due to ice and snow on the trail and weather conditions approaching 80 degrees. Sullivan and the rescuers arrived at the trailhead parking area shortly after 6:00 p.m. She was transported to Memorial Hospital in North Conway for evaluation and treatment.

Hikers should be aware that large areas of the White Mountain National Forest still have deep snow and ice. Hikers should plan their hikes for such conditions and carry traction devices or snowshoes when conditions warrant. Hikers should also plan for any contingency that may occur while hiking and have the appropriate equipment and training to handle an emergency. For safe hiking tips and a list of essential gear, visit hikesafe.com.

Lakes Region Search and Rescue and Mountain Rescue Service are volunteer search and rescue organizations whose members work hard and donate their time in order to perform rescues across the state. Anyone can donate to LRSAR or MRS through the New Hampshire Outdoor Council at www.nhoutdoorcouncil.org. Donations are fully tax deductible.Outdoor enthusiasts are also encouraged to purchase a Hike Safe card at www.wildnh.com/safe. The card helps support Fish and Game search and rescue activities.