21-Year-Old Hiker Dies After Falling Off Trail on New York's Tallest Mountain

Brianna L. Mohr's cause of death has been revealed as hypothermia after she slipped off the trail near the summit of Mount Marcy.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Brianna L. Mohr, a 21-year-old hiker from New Jersey, died on February 12 while hiking Mount Marcy, the tallest mountain in New York State, with her dog. Mohr fell off the trail near the summit and was found deceased by New York State Forest Rangers later that evening. An autopsy determined her cause of death was hypothermia.

Why it matters

Hiking accidents on remote mountains like Mount Marcy, which has an elevation of over 5,300 feet, can be tragic reminders of the dangers of outdoor activities, especially in harsh winter conditions. This incident has prompted discussions about hiking safety and preparedness in New York's Adirondack region.

The details

According to New York State Police, Forest Rangers were alerted about a hiker and dog in distress on Mount Marcy around 3 p.m. on February 12. Rangers responded by snowmobile and tracked utility vehicle, while a state police helicopter also joined the search. Due to heavy cloud cover, the helicopter crew could not locate Mohr, and one ranger was dispatched on foot. Shortly before 10 p.m., a ranger found Mohr deceased near the summit. Her dog was found alive and rescued. An autopsy determined Mohr's cause of death was hypothermia.

  • On February 12, 2026, Forest Rangers were alerted about a hiker and dog in distress on Mount Marcy around 3 p.m.
  • Rangers responded and found Brianna L. Mohr deceased near the summit shortly before 10 p.m. on February 12.
  • Mohr's body was recovered the following day, on February 13.

The players

Brianna L. Mohr

A 21-year-old hiker from New Jersey who died while hiking Mount Marcy with her dog.

New York State Forest Rangers

The search and rescue team that responded to the incident on Mount Marcy and eventually found Mohr deceased near the summit.

New York State Police

The law enforcement agency that assisted in the search and rescue effort on Mount Marcy, including deploying a helicopter.

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What they’re saying

“Dear Bri, I never thought I would have to do this but I just want to say you were the best friend and sister I could have ever asked for.”

— Ryan Mohr, Brianna Mohr's brother (Asbury Park Press)

“I am so lost.”

— Stephanie West, Brianna Mohr's mother (Fox News)

What’s next

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has stated that it offers its condolences to Brianna Mohr's family.

The takeaway

This tragic incident on New York's tallest mountain serves as a somber reminder of the risks involved in outdoor activities, especially in harsh winter conditions. It highlights the importance of proper preparation, equipment, and caution when hiking in remote, rugged areas.