Nashua hiker rescued from Mt. Hancock

LINCOLN – Rebecca Justason, 36, of Nashua, was rescued from Mt. Hancock after suffering from “heat-related issues” on the evening of July 11.
According to New Hampshire Fish and Game, conservation officers received a call from Justason at 7:40 p.m. indicating that she was not feeling well and was on her way down the mountain on Hancock Loop Trail.
The officers then lost contact with Justason and were not able to get her back on the phone to determine if a rescue was needed.
Sensing that something more may have happened, the officers alerted Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue and a team was sent up the 4,420-foot mountain at 9:45 p.m. Rescuers found Justason two miles up the trail and provided her with food and water.
She was assisted the rest of the way down and arrived back at the trailhead at 11:10 p.m.
Earlier that evening, another hiker, Joseph Revellie of Rhode Island, also suffered a heat-related emergency and had to be rescued from the summit of Mt. Lafayette in Franconia, which stands at 5,249 feet.
According to NH Family Hikes, the 10-mile Hancock Loop Trail is categorized as being extremely difficult for both its distance and steep terrain.
New Hampshire Fish and Game reminds hikers to bring extra food and water when hiking during hot and humid weather. Hikers are also encouraged to choose a less strenuous trail and to start hiking early in the morning.
“The mountains will be there another day, so don’t hesitate to turn back if necessary,” said Lt. James Kneeland.