NYS DEC: Illegal trail marker on Black Bear Mountain results in three hikers who ended up rescued from being lost

INLET- An adult and two teenagers had to be rescued in the Western Adirondacks after becoming lost by following illegal trail markings.

The incident occurred last Wednesday afternoon, as Herkimer County Dispatch transferred a call to the New York State DEC in Ray Brook over three lost hikers in the town of Inlet, Hamilton County.

The three were hiking on Black Bear Mountain and followed a blue arrow, which was spray painted on a tree and pointed the opposite direction when compared to a certified trail marker (see image above).

The 44-year-old and two teens, who are all from Pennsylvania, became lost as they ventured down from the summit.

Forest Rangers Miller and Nahor responded to the coordinates from the call, found the three subjects in good spirits, and assisted them back to their vehicle.

According to the DEC, it is illegal to add paint to a trail and responsible parties may face misdemeanor-level charges, if caught.

NYS DEC image.