9 hikers from Indiana, Chicago rescued after getting lost in Kentucky

WOLFE COUNTY, Ky. (WLS) -- Nine hikers from Indiana and Chicago were rescued after getting lost in Kentucky's Red River Gorge over the weekend.

The students had traveled to the area to get a break from the flooding and power outages back home.

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Officials say the hikers had set out for Indian Staircase, but didn't get there until after nightfall.

They called for help after realizing they were in trouble about 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

Rescuers found the group and used a hand line to safely guide them down the trail.

Officials said descent of the trail after dark can be "extremely dangerous."

Everyone exited safely about 2 a.m. Sunday.