PHOTOS: Multiple Wilderness Rescues in the Hudson Valley

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation had a busy week in the Hudson Valley with multiple wilderness rescues over the course of just a few days.

Rangers across the state are always ready to help stranded, lost, or injured hikers. The two operations last week showed just how unique each rescue is.

New York State Hiker Rescues by NYS DEC

Between the NYS DEC, local law enforcement, and the New York State Police, there are many different methods of rescue available. From mountaintop helicopter evacuations to the use of a backpack litter that looks more like a medieval torture device that emergency equipment (below).

Multiple NYS DEC Ranger Rescues in the Hudson Valley

The recent Hudson Valley rescues didn't use hovering helicopters or the physics-oriented backpack litter, but rather a more traditional approach that still saw hikers led back to safety.

NYS DEC Ranger Operation in Greene County, NY

The first rescue, in Windham, NY on August 14th, was focused on an out-of-town hiker who sustained an ankle injury. Photos (above) show a more standard litter being used to bring the patient down from Black Dome Mountain.

NYS DEC Ranger Operation in Sullivan County, NY

In Sullivan County, a different piece of technology was used when a 21-year-old called 911, saying they were lost and their phone battery was running low. Along with rangers, the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office used a drone to assist in locating the subject, who was found at 2 a.m. (above).