Stranded hikers able to climb off ledge as they await rescue

MOUNT VERNON — A Skagit County sheriff's spokesman says two hikers who had been stranded on a narrow mountain ledge in the North Cascades were able to make their way to a safer spot on a nearby glacier as they wait for rescue hikers.

Deputy Brad Holmes said that at about 7 p.m. today, the rescuers were about a mile away and 1,500 feet below the stranded pair on Spire Point, northeast of Darrington.

The 33-year-old man and his 27-year-old girlfriend called for help Wednesday night after becoming stranded on an 18-inch ledge.

Holmes says the hikers have not reported any injuries but their exposed condition in the cold and rain at the 6,000-foot level is a serious concern.

A Navy helicopter from Whidbey Island that was unable to reach the hikers late Wednesday is on standby.

Holmes says cellphone contact with the hikers is limited because their battery is running low.