BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK, Texas — A 24-year-old hiker was found dead Monday morning along Marufo Vega Trail, according to Big Bend National Park Service (NPS).
NPS rangers and U.S. Border Patrol supported by helicopters from Texas Department of Public Safety and U.S. Customs Air and Marine Operations, recovered the body.
On Sunday, park rangers found a vehicle that had been parked for multiple days at the Trailhead for Marufo Vega/ Strawhouse/ Ore Terminal Trail.
According to NPS, records showed that there were no overnight backpackers listed. The park pilot did a quick search of the area and found no hikers. However, on Monday morning, the park search & rescue team went through three different trails and air assets were directed to the remote area. That is when they found the dead hiker.
“Big Bend National Park staff and partners are saddened by this loss,” Deputy Superintendent Rick Gupman said in a NPS media release. “Our entire park family extends condolences to the hiker’s family and friends.”
Description of Marufo Vega Trail by NPS: "A spectacular yet challenging 14-mile loop that winds through rugged desert and along rocky limestone cliffs. No shade or water makes this trail dangerous during the warmer times of year."