CONTACT:
Sgt. Heidi Murphy
603-744-5470
603-271-3361
June 19, 2023
Orford, NH – At 8:00 a.m. on June 15, a report of an injured hiker came into 911 from the Appalachian Trail in Orford near the summit of Mt. Cube. A 48-year-old woman had sustained an injury after falling on wet, slippery rocks along the trail. Her daughter, who was her hiking companion, called for help, but thought they could turn around and walk slowly back down the trail. They were directed to hike to the closest road. Thanks to a landowner, rescue and fire department personnel from Orford, Hanover, Lyme, Thetford, Wentworth, Orford Police Department, and a Conservation Officer were able to drive to within 1.5 miles of the injured hiker. The hiker met rescue personnel and was able to make it the entire distance under her own power, arriving at the trailhead 10:05 a.m.
The hiker, identified as Joanne Gigliotti of Horseshoe, NC, was transported by Upper Valley Ambulance to Dartmouth Health for evaluation and treatment of the injuries she had suffered in the incident. Gigliotti was a well prepared and experienced hiker who was hiking the Appalachian Trail with her daughter. The pair had started in Virginia in late February.
For safe hiking tips and a list of essential gear, visit hikesafe.com. Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to purchase a Hike Safe card at wildnh.com/safe. The card helps support Fish and Game search and rescue activities.