Tragic news out of Rocky Mountain National Park where rangers recovered a body believed to be that of a missing hiker from Omaha, Nebraska, above Emerald Lake on August 13th. Upon discovery, rangers completed an on-scene investigation and a helicopter was used to recover the body.
Missing Hiker in Rocky Mountain National Park
Family members reported 23-year-old Blake Kieckhafer missing to park rangers on Monday, August 11th. He was last seen in the Upper Beaver Meadows area on August 7th around 5:20pm when a ride share service dropped him off.
The investigation brought search efforts to the Emerald Lake area on Wednesday with over 80 people involved in the effort. Several agencies including Larimer County Search and Rescue Dog Teams, Arapahoe Rescue Patrol and a contracted helicopter assisted in the search.
The body was discovered above Emerald Lake on Wednesday, August 13th. Crews flew his body to a landing zone in Rocky Mountain National Park and transferred him to the Larimer County Coroner’s Office. The Coroner’s Office will confirm positive identification and release additional information when ready.
Our thoughts and condolences are with the friends and family of the deceased at this time.
Safety in Rocky Mountain National Park
While a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park can be a stunning, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for hikers and other recreators, it’s important that you stay aware of the potential hazards that can arise in the park throughout the year.
Safety Tips for Recreating in Burn Areas
Hiking through burn zones comes with additional hazards that one should be aware of while visiting the national park.
- The ground may be weak and unstable around burned-out stump holes.
- Dead trees can be unstable, especially in windy conditions.
- Loose rocks, logs and rolling debris are more likely in burn areas.
- Burn areas are particularly susceptible to flash flooding and significant debris flow.
- The lack of forest canopy can make the dry, hot conditions hard to handle.
Prepare for Cold Temperatures
Even in the dead of the summer, temperatures can quickly drop in high elevation areas throughout the park. Bring multiple types of jackets and multiple layers, including a wind or rain jacket, fleece layer, and a waterproof winter jacket shell. Check what the wind chill will be for the day you plan to visit so you can pack properly. Make sure you’re prepared and wearing the following:
- Warm hat
- Windproof/Waterproof Jacket
- Mittens/Gloves
- Neck Gaiter
- Glasses or Goggles to help protect your eyes
For more information of safety in Rocky Mountain National Park, check out this website.
