by Keene, New York — A 21-year-old New Jersey woman has died after slipping off a trail near the summit of New York’s tallest mountain during a winter hike, authorities said.
Brianna Mohr was found the evening of Feb. 12 near the summit of Mount Marcy, where she was pronounced dead, according to the New York State Police.
An autopsy later determined the cause of death to be hypothermia.
Officials said Mohr slipped off the trail near the summit and was unable to return to it in frigid conditions.
911 Call Triggered Search Effort
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Mohr called 911 at approximately 3:05 p.m. to report that she had fallen off the trail and could not climb back up.
State Forest Rangers responded around 3 p.m. to reports of a hiker and her dog in distress on the mountain and launched an extensive search operation.
Rangers deployed snowmobiles and a tracked utility vehicle, while the New York State Police Aviation Unit conducted aerial searches in case a hoist rescue was possible.
However, officials said the helicopter crew was unable to locate her from the air. Around 6 p.m., a ranger was dropped near the Marcy Dam Outpost to continue the search on foot.
Mohr was located at approximately 9 p.m., but authorities reported she showed no signs of life.
Her dog was found unharmed and safely rescued.
Bitter Cold Conditions on the Mountain
According to weather reports, temperatures in Keene, New York — the town nearest Mount Marcy — ranged from -8 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit on the day of the hike.
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At 5,344 feet, Mount Marcy is the tallest peak in New York State and is located in the Adirondack Mountains. Conditions near the summit are often colder and windier than at lower elevations, especially during winter months.
Extreme cold, wind exposure and terrain challenges can quickly turn dangerous for hikers in winter conditions.
Family and Community Mourning
Mohr’s death has left family and friends devastated.
Her brother, Ryan Mohr, shared a tribute on social media days later.
“You were the best friend and sister I could have ever asked for… you were and always will be the coolest person I know,” he wrote.
Her mother, Stephanie West, posted a Valentine’s Day message alongside a photo of her daughter, writing, “I am so lost.”
Mohr’s social media accounts reflect her love for travel and outdoor adventure, with numerous photos from national parks and scenic destinations.
Ongoing Reminder About Winter Hiking Risks
Authorities continue to emphasize the risks associated with winter hiking in high-elevation terrain, particularly when temperatures drop below freezing and daylight hours are limited.
Officials urge hikers to monitor weather forecasts, carry proper winter gear and inform others of their route before heading into remote areas.
The tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly conditions can deteriorate in mountainous environments.
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