Frightening Hike: All 57 from Viznitzer BP Yeshiva Safely Rescued After Getting Lost in Harriman State Park

By BoroPark24 Staff

What was supposed to be a short hike turned into a frightening ordeal for 55 bochurim and two staff members from the Viznitzer Boro Park Yeshiva Gedola who spent Shabbos in Nyack, got lost in Harriman State Park on Sunday afternoon, but thanks to a swift multi-agency response, all were safely located and brought out of the park in good condition.

The group had begun the hike around 12:00 p.m., intending to complete the trail in about 90 minutes. However, the group became split in two early on, as one staff member and part of the group pulled ahead and became separated from the rest. As time passed and they realized they were far off track, it became clear they were lost.

Fortunately, there was cellphone service in the area, and the group contacted for help, and Matzil, Rockland Chaveirim, Rockland Hatzolah, coordinated with Park Rangers, launched a rescue operation.

Park Rangers were the first to make contact with both groups and began guiding them out. Matzil and Chaverim volunteers also entered the park to assist and provide water and electrolytes, as the boys' supplies had been depleted during the extended trek.

The first group was escorted out by Park Rangers and Matzil, while the second group — who were deeper in the woods — was brought out about 30 minutes later by Chaverim and Park Rangers.

All of the bochurim were given water and shade to recover. One bochur was evaluated by Rockland Hatzoloh for symptoms of dehydration but did not require further medical care.

By late afternoon, all 57 individuals were safely out of the park, thanks to the quick and coordinated efforts of all involved.