With Monday's total solar eclipse looming, it's no surprise that many people who are within traveling distance of the path of totality want to get their hiking boots on and enjoy it from the wilderness. The sheer volume of people expected to hike combined with current conditions and the timing of the eclipse have concerned mountain rescue teams in the northeast urging people to rethink their plans, however.
In recent days, Vermont's Waterbury Backcountry Rescue Team has released a statement on Facebook begging people to avoid high or remote areas on Monday.
"We strongly advise against any such venture during the forthcoming solar eclipse," writes WBRT, explaining that several trail systems remained closed, including the Green Mountain Club hiking trails and Camel’s Hump Road, both to deter hikers and due to current conditions.
Though the weather forecast for the state on Monday is set to be sunny and in the 50s, rescuers warn that up high, things will look a little different. Recent snowfall in the area is likely to mean treacherous conditions in mountain areas and officials warn that hiking in these areas requires caution and preparation.
"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."
Furthermore, in an interview with Vermont Public Radio, Stowe Mountain Rescue team member Tom Rogers says that because the eclipse will begin at 3:26 p.m. in Vermont, there is concern that backcountry hikers could quickly find themselves out in the dark when the show is over. The number of hikers anticipated on the day is adding to the mounting pressure on rescue teams.
“The influx of people that they're anticipating is pretty daunting,” says Rogers. “With that many people, all it takes is a few accidents and rescue services can really get backed up.”
Naturally, there will be people who decide to ignore the warnings and hike anyway, and for those hikers, WBRT advises that you "plan your own rescue" as 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."
Your safest option is to enjoy the eclipse from a lower-lying area. If you're venturing anywhere there might be snow or ice on the trail, you should be equipped with crampons, winter clothing, a headlamp and an emergency shelter in case you have to spend the night.
