New York, NY – Four hikers who had consumed psychedelic mushrooms found themselves lost near Giant Ledge in the Slide Mountain Wilderness of the Catskill Mountains, prompting a swift rescue effort by forest rangers. The group experienced intense hallucinations, complicating their situation but ultimately leading to a safe recovery.
This incident marks the second time this year that hikers under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms required rescue in New York’s mountainous regions.
A Harrowing Rescue Near Giant Ledge
Emergency dispatch received a 911 text indicating that four hikers had lost their way in the Catskill Mountains. According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC), the group had ingested psychedelic mushrooms, with one individual experiencing a particularly debilitating high.
“One of the hikers reported hallucinations, including seeing a nonexistent bridge,” noted sources cited by FOX News.
Forest rangers mobilized quickly and, in under two hours, located the hikers less than 1,000 feet from the marked trail. The team was then guided back safely to the trailhead for medical evaluation.
Adding to the challenge, the group had lost their keys during the hike. However, a dedicated ranger later found the lost keys under a log after retracing the trail the following day.
- Incident location: Giant Ledge, Slide Mountain Wilderness, Catskill Mountains
- Number of hikers involved: Four
- Time to rescue: Less than two hours from 911 report
- Lost items recovered: Keys found under a log the next day
Second Such Incident Highlights Growing Concerns
This rescue comes just months after a similar event in May, when two hikers in the Adirondack Mountains took psychedelic mushrooms and incorrectly reported a death in their party. Those individuals were safely rescued and reunited after hospital treatment.
“The repeat nature of these incidents signals the need for greater awareness regarding the risks associated with consuming psychedelic substances in challenging outdoor environments,” stated officials.
Understanding Psychedelic Mushrooms and the Risks
Psychedelic mushrooms, colloquially known as “magic mushrooms,” contain the hallucinogenic compound psilocybin. This substance can cause vivid hallucinations, distorted perceptions of time, and rapid emotional fluctuations, all of which can severely impair judgment and orientation in wilderness settings.
- Legal status in New York: Illegal to possess, sell or cultivate psychedelic mushrooms
- Main effects: Hallucinations, altered time perception, mood swings
- Risk factors: Increased chance of getting lost or injured while under influence
Lessons Learned and Safety Recommendations
This recent rescue underscores the dangers of consuming mind-altering substances in remote outdoor areas. Experts recommend:
- Avoiding psychedelic substance use when hiking or exploring wilderness areas
- Always hiking with trusted companions and carrying proper navigation tools
- Informing someone of your hiking plans and expected return time
- Being prepared for emergencies by carrying a charged phone or GPS device
What do you think about this rescue involving psychedelic mushrooms? Have you ever encountered unexpected challenges during a hike? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
