JACKSON, Wyo. — Big Horn County Sheriff Ken Blackburn has called off the search for a hiker who has been missing in the Bighorn Mountains since July 29.
Grant Gardner, of Minnesota, had planned a three-day hike through the Misty Moon Lake area, with plans to summit Cloud Peak and return to his vehicle afterward. Gardner made contact with his wife on the evening of July 29, letting her know he’d made it to the summit. Since that time, there has not been any contact with Gardner.
Teton County Search and Rescue participated in the mission, along with search teams from South Big Horn County, Sheridan County, Johnson County, Washakie County and Park County Wyoming, First Flight of Wyoming and the Wyoming Army National Guard.
“In consultation with family members, I have made the heartbreaking and difficult decision to suspend active search and rescue operations for Mr. Gardner,” Sheriff Blackburn posted to the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page. “Our teams have exhausted all resources and personnel over the last 20 days. With weather conditions and other factors updated in our search models, we have to face the reality that the most optimistic survival odds have run out.”
Blackburn added that search efforts will continue “as time and evidence allow.”
“On behalf of the family, they want to personally thank each and every one of you who have offered time, resources, and prayers on their behalf. While grieving, they are humbled, and grateful beyond words,” Blackburn wrote. “Many team members feel like they have lost a battle by not finding Grant at this time, however, it was not for a lack of effort on anyone’s part. We hope clues will surface that will help bring a final closure to this tragedy in due time.”
In closing, Blackburn stated that his office would share updates when possible.
