BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK, Texas (Gray News) – A hiker was found dead along a rugged trail at Big Bend National Park.
Searchers found the body of a 24-year-old hiker along the Marufo Vega trail on Oct. 28.
According to the National Park Service, park rangers had noted the day before a car was parked for multiple days at a trailhead.
Records showed there were no overnight backpackers listed and no hikers were immediately spotted by a park pilot during a quick search of the area.
Search and rescue teams comprised of park rangers and U.S. Border Patrol set off across the three trails that share the trailhead where the car was parked. Helicopters from the Texas Department of Public Safety and U.S. Customs Air and Marine Operations also assisted in the search.
The park service reported the hiker was found later that day along the Marufo Vegal trail. Their body was removed by helicopter.
“Big Bend National Park staff and partners are saddened by this loss,” Deputy Superintendent Rick Gupman said in a press release. “Our entire park family extends condolences to the hiker’s family and friends.”
The hiker’s identity and cause of death have not been released at this time.
Marufo Vega Trail is described as a “spectacular yet challenging 14-mile loop” that winds through the desert and along limestone cliffs. The park service said it is particularly dangerous in warmer weather since the trail has no shade or water.
The park service said daily temperatures during this time of the year remain “extreme” at Big Bend National Park, with temperatures nearly reaching 100 degrees in the afternoon.
They advise visitors to be aware of the “dangers of extreme heat.” They’re advised to bring water and salty snacks while hiking and be off the desert trails during the afternoon heat.
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