Teenager Falls Approximately 60 ft in North Carolina State Park

A waterfall.Photo byLjleavell

On Saturday, an 18-year-old fell approximately 60 feet off of High Shoals Falls in South Mountain State Park. The incident occurred in the afternoon, and emergency responders were immediately called to the scene.

According to witnesses, the teenager was hiking near the waterfall when he lost his footing and fell over the edge. The fall was estimated to be around 60 feet, and the teenager landed on rocks at the bottom of the falls.

Emergency responders arrived on the scene and found the teenager with serious injuries. He was immediately airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The fall occurred in a remote part of the park, and the rescue operation was challenging for emergency responders. They had to navigate steep terrain and rough terrain to reach the teenager and bring him to safety.

The park rangers have cautioned visitors to be careful while hiking near waterfalls and to follow safety guidelines. They advise that visitors should stay on designated trails, wear appropriate shoes, and be aware of their surroundings.

The incident has prompted officials to remind hikers of the dangers of the park's trails, particularly around the waterfalls. South Mountain State Park Superintendent, Jonathan Griffith, has urged hikers to stay on designated trails and to exercise caution while exploring the park's many natural features.

"South Mountain State Park is a beautiful and wonderful place to visit, but it can also be very dangerous if you're not careful," Griffith said. "We urge all visitors to stay on the trails, pay attention to warning signs, and be aware of their surroundings at all times."

The teenager's condition is currently unknown, and it is unclear if he was alone at the time of the incident. The park officials have not released the name of the teenager, but they have promised to update the public on his condition as more information becomes available.