CONTACT:
Sgt. Alex Lopashanski
603-744-5470
603-271-3361
November 13, 2023
Livermore, NH – On Saturday, November 11, 2023, shortly after 11:30 a.m., New Hampshire Fish and Game was notified that a hiker had phoned 911 and stated that his feet were frozen and he was not able to continue. The hiker, Nathan Stark, 22, of Newport, NH, was on the last day of a multi-day hike with a friend. They had become separated by a short distance on the Desolation Trail near the summit of Mt. Carrigain when he placed the call for help. There is poor cell service in the area. His call with 911 dropped and further attempts to contact him failed.
Shortly after making the call Stark’s hiking partner returned to him and got him moving. Rather than hiking the shortest route back to the trailhead over Mt. Carrigain they hiked an 8-mile loop in the opposite direction which kept them in front of rescuers who were hiking in to assist. Stark and his friend arrived at the trailhead shortly after 5:30 p.m.
Winter conditions are already present in the White Mountains. Snow and ice will persist for the rest of the season. Conditions at trailheads will not be an accurate predictor of the conditions found at higher elevation. Outdoor enthusiasts are 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.