Four hikers were rescued near Giant Ledge in the Catskills after getting lost while under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms, according to the Police Benevolent Association of New York State.
The hikers texted for help late Friday while disoriented in the Slide Mountain Wilderness Area, a rugged section of forest with steep elevation changes and sheer drops. Forest Rangers Franceschina, Jeffery, and Martin located the group at dusk and guided them to safety.
The rangers also helped transport the hikers to nearby lodging and later returned to retrieve their lost car keys and personal belongings.
“This level of dedication, at the start of a busy Labor Day weekend, is representative of the commitment shared by our Forest Ranger members,” said PBA President James McCartney in a statement. “They continue to prioritize public safety, even in dangerous and difficult situations.”
The PBA of New York State represents Forest Rangers and other law enforcement officers tasked with protecting New York’s parks, forests, and public lands.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].