Hiker Killed By Falling Rock

Shu Qin, 28, was hiking with her family on New Hampshire’s Falling Waters Trail in Franconia, New Hampshire when a 5 foot boulder dislodged itself from above and tumbled 40 feet, hitting Qin in the head and killing her. She was rushed to a hospital but died from severe head injuries.

News like this is actually quite rare in the outdoor world, but tragic none the less. Last year a well known climber was killed after a hiker decided to launch a boulder from the top of a cliff, without looking. The only reason why I am adding this incident to the first unfortunate event, is to make a small point, but one that could save your life.

Many people are itching to get outside in the spring time. Whether it be hiking, climbing, fishing, hunting, boating, or any other activity you partake in, we all hear of these freak accidents and unfortunate events that kill every year. Some of these events could be remedied by simply paying a bit more attention to your surroundings. Before you do something stupid, understand that if you are out in an area, more than likely there are others, as well. If you are hiking around large rocks, not only watch the trail in front of you, but look up. Rocks do occasionally dislodge and fall, Fishermen fall from banks, hunters occasionally become the huntee. Never underestimate your surroundings.

I am not saying that these two particular incidents would have not happened if these guidelines are followed, but if you notice your surroundings, you do have the possibility of protecting yourself a bit more. Be careful out there!

Let’s keep Qin’s family and associates in our thoughts today as they try to deal with this horrific event.