Injured Hiker assisted off Old Bridle Path in NH

FRANCONIA NOTCH, N.H. -- A Westford man who fell and injured his leg while hiking in Franconia Notch Saturday afternoon was helped from the trail by a rescue team, but officials say he was well-prepared for his hike.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department was notified about 3:40 p.m. that Jay Enis, of Westford, fell and injured his leg while hiking on the Old Bridle Path Trail in Franconia Notch. Old Bridle Path is typically used to access the Greenleaf on the way up to Mount Lafayette. The trails on and around this ridge have been a frequent rescue area this year due to various reasons

Members of the Appalachian Mountain Club were helping Enis descend the trail under his own power, but conservation officers from New Hampshire Fish and Game and the Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue Team started up the trail to assist.

Members of the rescue team found Enis about 4:15 p.m., about 2 1/2 miles from the trailhead. They provided first-aid and put a splint on Enis' leg. Everyone made it back to the trailhead by 8:05 p.m.

Despite the injury, Enis was able to slowly complete the hike with some assistance.

"Mr. Enis and the other member of his hiking party were prepared and had all the necessary clothing and equipment for a summer day hike," the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department said in a press release.

The agency encourages all hikers to visit www. hikesafe.com for a list of recommended hiking equipment. The trails on and around this ridge have been a frequent rescue area this year due to various reasons, but the common theme in most of the rescues in the area have been due to the lack of preparedness.

Hikers who get in trouble while hiking unprepared can be forced to pay for their rescue.

Old Bridle Path (Red)