Disoriented Hikers located

A group of hikers got more than they bargained for when visiting the Upper Whitewater Falls Wednesday afternoon.  Oconee County Fire Chief Charles King reports that at 5:40pm, responders were alerted to assist a group of hikers who had become disoriented along the Foothills Trail. The party had begun their trip at The Upper Whitewater Falls and hiked towards the Badcreek area when they become lost. Responders from three counties worked for nearly four-hours to locate an extract the group. The group was found to be safe, without injury and hungry. The group of three adults, two females and one male, traveled eight miles away from their intended trail. Those agencies working Wednesday afternoon’s incident were Oconee County Special Rescue, Salem Rescue Squad, Glenville-Cashiers Rescue Squad from North Carolina, Lake Toxaway Volunteer Fire Department, Oconee County Fire Department, and the US Forest Service Gorges State Park in North Carolina. Chief King encourages all persons visiting the scenic trails and waterfalls in Oconee County to be prepared for their excursion. Each group should have food, water, clothing and shelter for the trip. Chief King reminds visitors that local guide services and outfitters are available to assist visitors.