Rescuers called to Glen Onoko

Jim Thorpe and Lehigh and Lausanne fire companies, along with Lehighton ALS, were dispatched to the lower falls of Glen Onoko around 7:30 p.m. for a rescue of two hikers.

It was reported that one hiker slid down an embankment at the lower falls. As crews were making their way to the hikers, they realized the hikers were in the area of the third falls.

Against wishes of dispatchers and first responders, they decided to venture off the trail. They told dispatchers they wanted to find their own way out and did not want fire personnel. The Jim Thorpe fire chief advised them to stay where they were because of the rough terrain in their location.

While moving toward the hikers, crews found a small brush fire. Crews are also dealing with trains passing through.

Just after 9:30 p.m., the hikers reached the bottom of the mountain and continued along the river until they were met by crews in the parking lot of Glen Onoko. Crews were assessing the hikers.