The rescue team entered the woods around 10 p.m. and reached Ouellette by 11:47 p.m. on the Jewell Trail. Ouellette was cold and suffering from fatigue but otherwise uninjured, and she was able to hike back down with the help of her rescuers after they gave her warm, dry clothes, according to Fish and Game. At that point, state officials said, the temperature was about 33 degrees and wind gusts had reached over 60 miles per hour. The rescue party arrived at the base station of the Cog Railway at around 6:15 a.m. Friday morning. Although most of the snow has melted, temperatures can still drop below freezing at higher elevations during the summer months. Anyone recreating in the mountains should be prepared with the appropriate gear to stay warm not only while they are moving, but if they have to sit in an exposed area in the case of an injury, according to Fish and Game. Fish and Game encourages all hikers to pack 10 essential items, including: map, compass, warm clothing, extra food and water, headlamp, fire starter, first aid kit, whistle, rain/wind jackets and pants, and a knife. More information about preparing for hiking is available at hikeSafe.com .
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