August 29, 2008 Rescue efforts underway for 2 trapped hikers Play video

(NECN/KOMO) - Two hikers from Massachusetts are stuck on a narrow mountain ledge in Washington State's North Cascade Mountains.

Authorities say rescuers are close to the two hikers but were unable to get them off the mountain Thursday. They will resume their rescue today.

At the last cell phone contact Thursday evening.

The Associated Press has identified the hikers as 33-year-old
Matt Edwards and 27-year-old Robin Gibson of Wisconsin.

Their families are currently in Massachusetts.

Authorities say rescuers know the location of the couple and are about 1,000 feet below them.

A Navy helicopter from Whidbey Island was called to help but was not able to reach the hikers.

Skagit County sheriff's Deputy Brad Holmes in Concrete says he's
encouraged by a few patches of blue sky. A helicopter is standing
by at the Whidbey Island Naval Air Station.