Hiker dies after fall near Mount Marcy summit

Crews recover body of 21-year-old New Jersey hiker after incident on New York's highest peak

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The body of a 21-year-old hiker from New Jersey has been recovered after they slipped off a trail near the summit of Mount Marcy, New York's highest peak. The State Department of Environmental Conservation says the call came in on Thursday around 3 p.m. for the incident, and a search began by air and snowmobile, but the hiker's body was not found until just before 10 p.m. that night. The hiker's identity has not been released.

Why it matters

Hiking accidents on New York's high peaks are not uncommon, with several fatalities occurring each year. This incident highlights the dangers hikers can face, even on well-traveled trails, and the challenges rescue crews face in responding to remote locations.

The details

According to officials, the hiker slipped off the trail near the summit of Mount Marcy, New York's highest peak at 5,344 feet. Rescue crews were dispatched by snowmobile, and a search began by air, but poor visibility from cloud cover prevented a helicopter from spotting the hiker. The hiker's body was eventually found just before 10 p.m. that night, along with a dog that was still alive.

  • The call came in around 3 p.m. on Thursday, February 16, 2026.
  • The hiker's body was found just before 10 p.m. on Thursday, February 16, 2026.
  • The hiker's body was recovered on Friday, February 17, 2026.

The players

New Jersey hiker

A 21-year-old hiker from New Jersey who died after slipping off the trail near the summit of Mount Marcy.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The agency that responded to the incident and led the search and recovery efforts.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper preparation, caution, and respect for the dangers inherent in hiking high peaks, even on well-traveled trails. It also highlights the challenges faced by rescue crews in responding to remote locations and the need for continued safety education and awareness among outdoor enthusiasts.