NATIONAL PARK SERVICE · news
Hiker Rescued by Helicopter from Icy Precipice Trail
March 3, 2021 · Source: National Park Service
A 26-year-old man from Belfast, Maine was flown by helicopter off an icy vertical face of the Precipice Trail on March 3. The Precipice is a rugged non-technical climb in good weather conditions with open cliff faces and iron rungs. It was the first time to Acadia for this visitor, who did not have any type of crampons or traction control devices. While the hiker suffered minor injuries after slipping and wedging himself against a tree to avoid sliding down the cliff face, he declined further medical assistance after he was transported safely to a landing zone on nearby ballfields in Bar Harbor by an Army National Guard helicopter. All trails in Acadia are incredibly icy at this time due to recent rains followed by days of cold weather. Hikers should be prepared for cold and icy conditions with extra layers of clothing and traction control devices.
Read the official NPS sourceWhat Travelers Need to Know
Review the park’s current conditions before departure and again on arrival. Follow posted restrictions and adjust your itinerary to the affected areas.
Dates and operating conditions can change after publication. Check the park’s official visitor information for your travel date.
Traveler guidance by State & Nation Staff Writer.