Hiker's body recovered at dunes

GREAT SAND DUNES—On Monday, June 26, Custer County Search and Rescue, Saguache County Search and Rescue and the Western Mountain Rescue recovered the body of a hiker between Milwaukee Peak and Marble Mountain in the Great Sand Dunes National Preserve. Two hikers discovered the body on Sunday, June 25 and reported it to the Custer County Sheriff’s Department. The body was safely recovered and transferred by Flight for Life on Monday, June 26. The National Park Service is working with the Saguache County Coroner’s Office to confirm the identity of the body and any cause of death.
A hiker was reported missing at Great Sand Dunes on May 14 and an intensive, interagency search was launched. After there was no sign of the presumed missing hiker during ground and aerial search efforts, search efforts were scaled back. Further investigation by the coroner’s office will determine if the body recovered yesterday is that of the hiker reported missing in May.
The National Park Service has been in close contact with the family of the missing hiker. Park managers wish to thank all the agencies and staff for their assistance in the recovery efforts. Updates to the situation will be made as new information develops. Media inquiries should be directed to Public Information Officer, Kathy Faz at 719-582-0258.