Hiker found dead on trail in Big Bend National Park

On October 27, park rangers noticed an unattended vehicle at the Marufo Vega trailhead. The car had been parked for several days, causing park rangers to worry. However, they did not see any backpackers listed on the trail register who planned to spend the night. At this party trailhead, hikers have the option of taking three different trails: Marufo Vega, Strawhouse, and Ore Terminal Trail.

The park pilot conducted an initial search of the area, but search efforts turned up nothing.

The next day, October 28, rescue teams set out to locate the individual through air and ground searches. The teams looked at the three separate trails accessible from the trailhead where his car was parked. The young man’s body was discovered on the ‘rugged’ Marufo Trail, which was then removed by the Ministry of Public Security helicopter.

Organizations involved in the search included the National Park Service Rangers, the US Border Patrol, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the US Customs Air and Marine Operations.

The name of the 24-year-old victim has not been released at this time

“The Marufo Vega Trail is a spectacular but challenging 23 kilometer loop that winds through rugged desert and past limestone cliffs. No shade or water makes this trail dangerous during the warm times of the year,” says the National Park Service (NPS) declared.

Big Bend National Park, where the Marufo Vega Trail is located, is located in southwest Texas and roughly overlooks 500,000 visitors per year.

The National Park Service reminds visitors to expect extreme temperatures, even in October. In addition, take the 10 Essentials with you and leave your detailed itinerary at home with a trusted person.

“Big Bend National Park staff and partners are saddened by this loss,” said Deputy Superintendent Rick Gupman. “Our entire park family extends its condolences to the hiker’s family and friends.”