The New Hampshire Union Leader,
WARNER, N.H. — A pair of hikers turned lemons into lemonade on Saturday when they parlayed an injury on the trail into a successful engagement.
On Saturday just before noon, New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers received word from State Police dispatch that a hiker, later identified as Alexis Hardy, 29, of Sandown, suffered a lower leg injury while hiking the Barlow trail on Mount Kearsarge.
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The hiker’s leg injury made it impossible for her to walk, according to Fish and Game, and she needed to be carried out by rescue personnel.
First responders from Warner Fire Department, Hopkinton Ambulance and conservation officers responded, reached the injured hiker and loaded her up to be carried off of the mountain.
But Hardy’s hiking companion, Tim Dupere, had plans of his own.
Once rescue efforts were underway, Dupere proposed to Hardy, presenting an engagement ring. Hardy said yes.
Rescue personnel carried Hardy to the summit and back down the Rollins trail. She was then transported by ambulance to Concord Hospital and treated for her injuries.
“New Hampshire Fish and Game would like to congratulate Alexis Hardy and Tim Dupere on their engagement!” a press release read, in part.
Fish and Game encourages hikers to visit hikesafe.com for tips and a list of essential gear.
© 2026 The New Hampshire Union Leader (Manchester, N.H.).
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