A late-night call from an Adirondack lodge set off a wilderness rescue on Gothics Mountain.
Forest Rangers found a 42-year-old hiker safe but off trail after the person became separated from a group during a February 7 hike. The Johns Brook Lodge caretaker called 911 at 8:50 p.m., and seven Rangers responded.
Rangers located the hiker at 11 p.m. in good health and walking out of the woods. They escorted the person back to the lodge to reunite with the group. Crews cleared the scene at 1:15 a.m.
The rescue highlights the steady pace of work for DEC Forest Rangers across New York.
In 2025, Rangers carried out 362 search and rescue missions statewide. They also extinguished 202 wildfires that burned 840 acres.
Rangers participated in 68 prescribed fires that rejuvenated 1,649 acres of land. Their law enforcement efforts led to more than 1,100 tickets and arrests.
The agency also deployed 41 Forest Rangers to fire assignments in 10 other states.
“Our Forest Rangers are elite law enforcement leaders who put their lives on the line when they respond to a search and rescue, wildland fire, or State land violation,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “We’re fortunate to have them patrolling State lands and keeping people safe. Their expertise and professionalism are valuable assets, not only in New York, but around the country wherever emergencies arise.”
Rangers also focused on training and outreach this week.
On February 5 in the Hamlet of Lake Clear, three Forest Rangers completed hoist operator training while helping train three others. Crew chiefs worked inside a helicopter with New York State Police Pilot Engel.
On January 29 in the Town of Carmel, Forest Ranger Grillo attended the Putnam County Youth Bureau’s annual Law Enforcement Night. Youth court members learned how agencies interact within the justice system.
Carmel Police, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, Westchester Aviation Association, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and Forest Rangers all took part.
DEC urges hikers to prepare before entering the backcountry and directs visitors to its “Hike Smart NY,” “Adirondack Backcountry,” and “Catskill Backcountry Information” webpages.
Anyone who needs a Forest Ranger for a search and rescue, to report a wildfire, or to report illegal activity on State lands can call 833-NYS-RANGERS. For urgent emergencies, call 911.
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