YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (trfnews.i234.me) – Authorities in Yellowstone National Park have shifted from a rescue mission to a recovery effort after 11 days of intense searching for 22-year-old Austin King-Henke of Winona, Minnesota. King-Henke was last seen on September 14 when he was dropped off by boat at Terrace Point for a solo hike up Eagle Peak, the park’s highest point, for what was supposed to be a week-long adventure.
During the initial days of his trip, King-Henke maintained contact with family, friends, and even a backcountry ranger. However, concern grew when he failed to return at the expected time, prompting an extensive search operation.
Over the past 11 days, more than 100 personnel have scoured over 3,225 miles of rugged terrain, using helicopters, drones, and dog teams. The search ranged from elevations of 11,350 feet to 8,400 feet, but despite these efforts, no definitive clues have been found regarding King-Henke’s whereabouts.
“Despite significant search efforts over the past week and a half, we have not been able to locate Austin,” said Yellowstone Superintendent Cam Sholly. “Although we will continue to hope for the best, I want to extend my deepest sympathies to Austin’s family, friends, and colleagues. I also want to thank the dedicated teams who have tirelessly worked in some of the most challenging terrain in the park.”
The National Park Service announced this week that the operation is now focused on recovery, with limited searches continuing. They do not anticipate further updates unless significant developments occur.
King-Henke, an employee at Xanterra Parks and Resorts within Yellowstone, was an avid outdoorsman. He grew up in Winona and graduated from Winona-Cotter High School. Social media platforms have since been flooded with messages of hope for his safe return.
As the search winds down, loved ones and the community remain hopeful, but the reality of the situation has grown somber. Yellowstone’s vast wilderness, known for its beauty, also harbors challenges for even the most experienced adventurers.