Search Continues for Austin King, Who Disappeared During Yellowstone Hike

The search is continuing for Austin King, a young man who went on a Yellowstone hike and did not return.

At a Glance

Crews are searching for a missing Yellowstone National Park employee, Austin King, 22.
King last communicated with his family on Sept. 17 from Eagle Peak, describing severe weather conditions.
He started his solo hike on Sept. 14 and deviated from his planned route, last seen by a ranger near Howell Creek on Sept. 16.
King failed to show up for a scheduled boat pickup, prompting rescue efforts.
Search conditions include snow, ice, and 6-foot drifts on Eagle Peak.

Search Operations Underway

Crews are searching for Austin King, 22, a Yellowstone National Park employee, who has gone missing after a hike. The search involves over 20 ground searchers, two helicopters, unnamed air systems, and a search dog team. The focus areas include Eagle Peak, Eagle Pass Mountain Creek Trail, and Eagle Creek Trailhead.

King last communicated with his family on September 17 from Eagle Peak, reporting severe weather conditions. His father, Brian King-Henke, has raised over $3,700 through a GoFundMe campaign to support the rescue efforts. Searchers discovered King’s camp and personal items in the Howell Creek area on Saturday.

The search for missing 22-year-old hiker Austin King continues in Yellowstone. Since Sept 21, 85 personnel, 2 helicopters, a search dog team, and a drone have been combing the hazardous terrain near Eagle Peak. With improving weather, efforts intensify: https://t.co/fvX3mDKhKe

— KULR-8 News (@KULR) September 25, 2024

Details of the Hike

Austin King embarked on his solo hike on September 14 from Terrace Point and deviated from his planned route, last seen by a ranger near Howell Creek on September 16. He described encountering fog, rain, sleet, hail, and wind during his call on September 17. Authorities from Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, along with local counties, are leading the search.

“Family are keeping an open mind for him to come home. Please keep Austin in your prayers,” King-Henke said.

As of September 25, the search was ongoing and his parents were maintaining hope. According to reports, King-Henke was the one who encouraged him to move to Yellowstone. However, the latest trip was “something he was not prepared for,” King-Henke added.

King’s description is essential for the public who might have helpful information: he is 6 feet tall, weighs 160 pounds, has brown hair and hazel eyes, and was wearing glasses, gray pants, and a black sweatshirt. His grandfather, Richard King, is providing updates on Facebook.

Safety Tips for Solo Hikers

Solo hiking can be a rewarding experience but carries significant risks. Hikers should always inform friends or family of their plans, carry navigation tools, pack emergency supplies, and be aware of weather conditions. It is critical to stick to planned routes and check-in regularly to ensure safety.

The search area in Yellowstone’s remote southeast corner involves hazardous conditions with snow, ice, and 6-foot drifts. Eagle Peak resides in the Thorofare region, one of the most remote areas in the contiguous United States. The public is encouraged to call the Yellowstone Communications Center at 307-344-2643 with any pertinent information.

King is reported to have a white two-door 2006 Chevy Silverado with Minnesota plates HWH863. Any details about his vehicle’s location or sightings can aid in the search efforts. The entire community and authorities stay hopeful as they continue to search rigorously.