CONTACT:
Sgt. Alex Lopashanski
603-744-5470
603-271-3361
October 19, 2023
Hart’s Location, NH – On Wednesday, October 18, shortly before 3:00 p.m., New Hampshire Fish and Game was notified of a hiker who was injured on the Arethusa Falls Trail. The hiker was Susan Stilson, of Howell, MI. Stilson was hiking with two family members when she slipped and injured her ankle while returning from the falls. Stilson attempted to bear weight on her injured ankle but was unable to. Members of her group also attempted to assist her down the trail. Ultimately, they realized they needed assistance and placed a call for help. Along with Conservation Officers, members of the Bartlett/Jackson Ambulance Service and Lakes Region Search and Rescue responded. Stilson was nearly 1.0 mile from the trailhead.
Rescuers stabilized Stilson’s injury, placed her in a litter and carried her back to the trailhead where she arrived shortly before 6:00 p.m. Stilson was transported from the scene by Bartlett/Jackson Ambulance and taken to Memorial Hospital in North Conway for treatment.
Lakes Region Search and Rescue (LRSAR) is a highly skilled volunteer search and rescue organization whose members work hard to maintain the skills and equipment necessary to carry out rescues across the state. Anyone can donate to LRSAR through the New Hampshire Outdoor Council by visiting 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. For safe hiking tips and a list of essential gear, visit hikesafe.com.