Missing hiker found dead in Yosemite after two weeks

Kirk S. Thomas-Olsen, a 61-year-old experienced hiker and former park ranger, was reported missing after he failed to return from a planned backpacking trip in Yosemite National Park from August 23 to 27. His family became concerned when he did not return as scheduled, prompting a search initiated by park rangers after a note was discovered in his vehicle indicating his intentions. The search lasted over two weeks, during which the National Park Service sought public assistance in locating him. Thomas-Olsen's niece, Holly Leeson, expressed the family's distress on social media, highlighting his extensive hiking experience and their struggle to comprehend his disappearance. The hike to Ostrander Lake, where he intended to go, is known to be strenuous, with significant elevation gain and a lengthy duration. On September 14, his body was found, marking a tragic conclusion to the search efforts. The National Park Service has not disclosed the cause of death or further details surrounding the incident. In her update to the community, Leeson thanked the park service for their efforts and acknowledged the inherent risks of solo hiking, emphasizing that even experienced individuals can face dangers in nature. This incident underscores the potential hazards associated with outdoor activities, particularly in challenging environments like national parks.