Tragic Update on National Park Hiker Who Went Missing Last Year
According to the National Park Services, the Indianapolis, IN., man set off to hike the famed Petroglyph Point Trail on Jan. 15, 2024. The trail is near the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, and it's a 2.4-mile loop that takes approximately two hours to complete. The hike is said to follow "a foot-worn trail of the Ancestral Pueblo people into the forested Spruce Canyon landscape and along a sometimes steep, rocky path to the canyon's rim." The trail is also described as "narrow, rugged, and rocky, with several steep drop-offs along the canyon wall on the way to the petroglyph panel."
When he didn't return from his hike the next day, Irwin's family contacted park rangers, who launched a search and rescue operation. Though his cell phone was reportedly found and turned over to authorities, Irwin could not be located following an extensive, initial 10-day effort.Park officials say they didn't let up in their search efforts over the last year, which led to the Feb. 28 discovery of Irwin's remains . Officials say the discovery came with the help of a human remains detection dog. Irwin's remains were located within the original search area during an off-trail grid search, officials say.
"We sincerely appreciate and recognize the dedication of the Mesa Verde Resource and Visitor Protection Team and other park staff who continued the search for Mr. Irwin," said Mesa Verde Superintendent Kayci Cook. "We are glad this provides some closure for his family."
The National Park Service warns those visiting the famed trail to "remain on the trail and avoid walking alongside unstable cliff edges," remain hydrated, and avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day.
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