Search Underway for Missing Hiker in Olympic National Park

A search effort is currently taking place for Neil Gehring, a 26-year-old hiker who went missing during an off-trail excursion in Olympic National Park, Washington. According to the National Park Service, Gehring began his hike from Madison Falls Trailhead last Monday, with a permit to traverse from Boulder Lake to Appleton Pass and return by the following day. He was reported overdue at 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, the day after his expected return. Search operations commenced immediately after he was reported missing. Gehring is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing approximately 130 pounds, with short black hair, a slender build, and brown eyes. The area where he disappeared features rugged terrain and steep slopes. The National Park Service is asking anyone with information to contact the Investigative Services Branch Tip Line at 888-653-0009 or email OLYM_Tips@cloud.doi.gov.