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Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Take time to prepare before you hike in Custer State Park
CUSTER, S.D. (KELO) — Throughout the summer months, Custer State Park is a popular vacation spot for people looking for a good hike. With that, many of the trails in the park are difficult and could be dangerous if you aren't prepared. New Rock Valley housing developments 1 year after flood Rolled ankles, dehydration and getting lost are some of the things Custer County Search and Rescue respond to along these scenic trails. 'People are not being prepared. Not understanding the Black Hills, the weather that we have, not having the supplies or resources available. Again, no maps, not knowing where they are going, checking the trailheads and looking for the diamonds. Understanding what different agencies use for markers,' Visitors Services Supervisor Lydia Austin said. Custer State Park is home to more than 70 miles of trails for people to bike or hike on at a higher elevation than most expect. 'We're at a higher elevation than what most people are used to. We're dryer, so people get dehydrated more easily out here. The hikes are strenuous and long, so they don't want to carry a heavy pack so they don't take quite as much water,' Custer County Search & Rescue Director Sam Smolnisky said. 'Listen to your body, maybe don't finish the hike. If you're hiking, maybe Black Elk Peak and you realize you're getting tired, you can turn around, it's okay. Make that your high point and come back down and make the trip enjoyable for yourself and don't end up in a rescue because that's not fun for anybody,' Austin said. In addition to bringing more water, layers, and having your phone fully charged, downloading trail apps can help. 'There are apps on your phone, whether it's Avenza, onX, Gaia, CalTopo, that can run offline. So you don't need to have cell service in order to access those apps and figure out where you're at,' Smolnisky said. Wildlife at the park roam around freely and can end up on your trail. If a bison or other animal approaches you, try to get around them, and keep a decent distance as you continue your hike. Search and Rescue also says it is important for people who need help to make the call themselves if able so they can pinpoint your location as quickly as possible. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
06-04-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Powell County crews rescue Clay City resident, 5 hikers, along with their dogs, in the same rainy evening
Video note: Despite this article's time stamp, the above video is the latest forecast from The Weather Authority. POWELL COUNTY, Ky. (FOX 56) — 'It's been a busy day in the Red River Gorge!' Powell County Search and Rescue (PCSAR) wrote on social media Friday after an evening of helping with an evacuation in Clay City before helping lost hikers in the Red River Gorge. Just before 8 p.m. Friday, team members were reportedly dispatched to Main Street in Clay City to carry out a water rescue in the area. According to the PCSAR, a resident needed help evacuating from his house due to high floodwaters. The team members were able to get them out, as well as their dog. Powell County crews rescue Clay City resident, 5 hikers, along with their dogs, in the same rainy evening Lexington firefighters deployed statewide to help with flood response efforts Flooding forces residents at Camp Nelson RV Park to evacuate Immediately after getting them to safety, PCSAR reportedly got another call that five hikers and a dog had gotten lost near the Tunnel Ridge Road in the Red River Gorge. Team members said they found the hikers near the Auxier Ridge Trailhead and took them back down to their vehicles on Nada Tunnel Road. Kentucky flood map shows where water is rising to dangerous levels amid 'historic' rainfall 'Remember to plan before you hike!' PCSAR wrote. Rescue personnel said to be sure to bring extra water, a portable phone charger, a flashlight, and a navigation app such as Gaia or CalTopo when hiking for an extended period of time. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
