LETTER: Backcountry rescue team cautions against eclipse hiking trips
March 26, 2024 | By Eric LaRose Dear hikers and outdoor enthusiasts,
In ordinary circumstances, the Waterbury Backcountry Rescue Team encourages and supports using all official hiking trails in our area. However, we strongly advise against any such venture during the forthcoming solar eclipse. Do not attempt to hike to high or remote areas!
Eclipse illustration by Maya Whitehair
The Green Mountain Club will not open the hiking trails until soil conditions warrant. Camel’s Hump Road in Duxbury will be closed on Sunday afternoon and Monday to non-resident traffic to deter folks from hiking.
On April 8, the trails will likely be icy, snowy, muddy, and extremely difficult to navigate. Slippery conditions will increase the likelihood of falls and injuries. Given the unpredictable nature of Vermont weather in early April, any injury or illness could quickly escalate into a dangerous situation. These trails are not like those found in city parks; they demand the utmost caution and preparation.
Daylight hours are limited in April, and your descent may need to be completed mostly in darkness. Navigating treacherous terrain in low light conditions significantly increases the risk of accidents and getting lost.
If you choose to hike despite our advice, it is imperative that you plan your own rescue. This plan should answer the following question: What will I do for myself during the next many hours and possibly a few days since no one can come to help? No backcountry. No EMS. No Fire. No police.
Why is this?
The roads throughout Central Vermont will likely be blocked for hours or possibly even for days. It may be impossible for rescuers to get their gear to the trail in anything like a normal time frame. Do not expect a helicopter to come and rescue you. It will not happen. This is not TV. In the best of times, rescue from remote locations is measured in long hours. Evacuations are measured in even more long hours.
Keep in mind that if you ignore these warnings, you may be competing with many others for rescue assistance, further delaying help for everyone involved.
Please don’t hike to remote areas. If you do anyway, plan to be completely on your own for a great many hours and possibly days.
Think “safety” before you think “eclipse.”
Sincerely,
Eric LaRose, president
Waterbury Backcountry Rescue Team