A multi-agency rescue operation saved the lives of two young Canadian hikers who became stranded in life-threatening winter conditions near the summit of Camels Hump over the weekend, authorities said.

The operation began at about 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, when one of the hikers called 911 to report that he and his companion were extremely cold and in need of assistance on the Long Trail near the summit of the 4,083-foot peak. At the time, temperatures were below zero, with wind chills approaching minus 20 degrees and deep snow covering the mountain.

Emergency crews instructed the hikers — a 21-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman, both from Ontario — to move onto the Alpine Trail and descend below the tree line if possible. At the same time, the Department of Public Safety’s search and rescue coordinator and the Vermont State Police Search and Rescue Team began organizing a response.

Teams from VSP Search and Rescue, Camels Hump Backcountry Rescue, Huntington Backcountry Rescue and Waterbury Backcountry Rescue mobilized to the Monroe Trail in Duxbury. An initial group of rescuers climbed the mountain, followed by a second team carrying a rescue litter.

Rescuers reached the hikers at about 11:20 p.m. and found both suffering from hypothermia. Crews immediately began treatment. After being warmed, the 21-year-old was able to walk down the trail with assistance. The 19-year-old was placed in the litter and continued receiving care as rescuers carefully transported her down the mountain.

The group reached the trailhead at about 4 a.m., where Waterbury Ambulance was waiting. The 19-year-old was taken to the hospital for further treatment. Both hikers are expected to make a full recovery.