Overview

• A 62-year-old Kentucky woman told relatives she planned a tram-assisted trek to Gold Ridge and Gastineau Peak Tuesday morning and did not return to the Norwegian Bliss by departure time
• Juneau Police Department and Alaska Department of Public Safety crews conducted ground and aerial searches Tuesday before grounding aircraft Wednesday due to overcast skies and rain
• Search teams are currently scouring snow-covered ridges and dense terrain around Gastineau Peak and Gold Ridge for signs of the missing hiker
• Norwegian Cruise Line is coordinating with local and state authorities in the multi-agency effort to locate the passenger ahead of the ship’s next port call
• The incident highlights broader safety concerns over independent shore excursions in rugged Alaskan terrain with lingering snow and rapidly changing weather