ESSEX COUNTY, N.Y. -- A search and rescue operation unfolded over the past two days in the bitter cold Adirondacks.

Officials said Stephen Mastaitis, 58, got separated from his hiking group on the summit of Mt. Marcy Monday afternoon.

Responders were able to determine his location using a cell phone, but the high winds prevented helicopters from reaching the steep summit cliff at the time. Four Forest Rangers made an attempt to climb to the summit to try to find the hiker, but their efforts were called off due to severely low temperatures and high winds.

It wasn't until Tuesday morning that the chopper was able to get to Mastaitis, and bring him to safety.

He was immediately flown to the hospital and is now in good condition.