Hiker found dead in Mt. Hood National Forest after days-long search

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A hiker was found dead in the Mt. Hood National Forest near Welches on Friday after a days-long search effort by multiple agencies, authorities said.

Earlier this week, the 33-year-old hiker's family told authorities he was overdue for a return after what was supposed to be a day hike. On Wednesday just before 7:30 p.m., the family reported that he was missing after last being heard from at 2 p.m. the day before, the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office said.

The hiker's identity isn't being released until the family members have been notified, officials said. Family members said the hiker was experienced but wasn't carrying gear for overnight conditions.

After he was reported missing, the CCSO Search and Rescue coordinators dispatched their volunteer Clackamas County Search and Rescue team. The hiker's tracks were soon spotted in the snow, kicking off an elaborate search.

Other agencies joined the efforts, including Portland Mountain Rescue, Pacific Northwest Search and Rescue, and Hood River Crag Rats, among others. An Oregon National Guard helicopter and a Hood River County Sheriff's Office fixed-wing plane were also used in the search, in addition to drones. Communication across teams in the difficult terrain was provided via Mountain Wave Emergency Communication.

The missing hiker, deceased, was located by the PMR search team near the Hidden Lake Trail just before 10:30 a.m. Friday morning.

CCSO said they don't believe the hiker's death is suspicious and more information as to their cause of death will be determined through the Clackamas County Medical Examiner's Office.