Rescue: Mt Chocorua, Champney Falls Trail

On Friday evening, July 10, LRSAR responded alongside NH Fish & Game to assist a 24-year-old male hiker who sustained an ankle injury near Champney Falls. The hiker was injured earlier in the hike and called 911 once he determined he could not continue. LRSAR was requested at 8:09 p.m. Team members were at the trailhead by 9:00 p.m.

A team of 14 LRSAR volunteers and 2 NH Fish & Game Conservation Officers hiked in with a litter, reaching the patient near the Mt. Chocorua summit at 11:02 p.m. Medical care was provided by LRSAR including splinting the injured leg. The patient reported significant injury pain which the team addressed. At 11:32 p.m. enough team members reached the patient to begin the carry. More would join the carry team during descent.

The team then completed a 3.4-mile litter carry, navigating multiple water crossings and challenging terrain. At 2:02 a.m., the team arrived back at the trailhead. The patient was transferred to his own vehicle, and his hiking partner transported him for further medical evaluation and treatment. After a quick debrief all team members cleared the scene at 2:18 a.m.

Thank you to all of the LRSAR volunteers and NH Fish & Game Conservation Officers for another successful overnight mission. We wish the patient a full and speedy recovery.