75-Year-Old Hiker and Dog Found Alive After Two-Day Search in Colorado

A 75-year-old woman has been found alive after going missing for two days during a hike in the mountains of Colorado. The woman, who was hiking with her dog, was reported missing on June 9 when she failed to return from a trek on a challenging trail known for its steep and rocky terrain. The woman, identified as Jennifer Hearn, was last seen on Triangle Peak, a trail located in the Snowmass Canyon area near Aspen. Her family alerted local authorities when she did not return by nightfall, prompting an immediate search effort. The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office received the report around 8:39 p.m. on June 9, and search teams began their efforts shortly thereafter. Initial search operations included volunteers from a local rescue organization, who scoured the area until the early hours of June 10. The search was extensive, involving ground teams, aerial support, and specialized search dogs. The rugged nature of the trail, which is approximately five miles long and sees limited foot traffic, complicated the search efforts. On June 11, searchers located Hearn's dog, an Irish Setter named Tawny, near a residence close to the trailhead. This discovery allowed search teams to narrow their focus to the steep hillsides overlooking the Woody Creek area, where Hearn was ultimately found around 3:15 p.m. that same day. Hearn was reported to be receiving medical care following her rescue, although details regarding her condition have not been disclosed. The sheriff’s office has requested privacy for Hearn and her family as they recover from the ordeal. The Triangle Peak Trail is known for its challenging conditions, with an elevation gain of about 1,800 feet in the first half of the hike. It is a route that many locals frequent, but its difficulty means that it does not attract large numbers of hikers. The trail intersects with several others, which can make navigation tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. Authorities have emphasized the importance of public cooperation during search operations. Undersheriff Alex Burchetta noted, “We understand, and are immensely thankful for the public's desire to aid in the search efforts. However, we want to avoid someone else possibly being injured and distracting our efforts from that goal.” The incident highlights the risks associated with hiking in mountainous regions, particularly for older individuals. According to statistics from the National Park Service, search and rescue operations are a common occurrence in national parks and wilderness areas, with thousands of incidents reported each year. As the community reflects on this incident, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of safety precautions when venturing into the wilderness. The successful rescue of Hearn and her dog underscores the dedication of local search and rescue teams, who often work tirelessly in challenging conditions to locate missing individuals. The story of Jennifer Hearn resonates with many who enjoy outdoor activities, illustrating both the beauty and the potential dangers of hiking in remote areas. As she recovers, her experience may encourage others to take heed of safety measures and to remain vigilant while exploring the great outdoors.