Hiker, 38, Missing for 7 Days in Wyoming Wilderness amid ‘High Winds, Thunder and Lightning Storms’

On August 1, 2025, the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office in Wyoming received distressing news about an overdue hiker in the Cloud Peak Wilderness area. The hiker in question is 38-year-old Grant Gardner from Minnesota, who had last contacted his wife on July 29 after embarking on a hike through the Misty Moon Lake area. Gardner had initially planned a three-day trek that involved summiting Cloud Peak before returning to his vehicle. However, concerns grew when Gardner’s wife did not hear from him after he claimed to have reached the summit of Cloud Peak on July 29.

Authorities swiftly launched a search and rescue operation to locate Gardner, who was reported missing amid ‘High Winds, Thunder, and Lightning Storms’ in the rugged wilderness of Wyoming. Gardner’s vehicle was found in the parking lot of the West Ten Sleep trailhead where he had begun his journey. The hiking log at the trailhead confirmed that he had entered the wilderness area as planned. His phone records indicated that he had summited the 13,000-foot Cloud Peak Summit late in the evening on July 29 and was preparing to descend to a lower elevation for the night, highlighting the challenging conditions he faced.

The late hour of Gardner’s summit raised concerns among search managers, prompting a multi-agency search operation that has been ongoing since August 1. Teams from South Big Horn County, Sheridan County, Johnson County, Washakie County, and Park County Wyoming, along with rotor aircraft from First Flight of Wyoming, the Wyoming Army National Guard, and private aircraft, have all joined forces in the search efforts. Despite their dedicated efforts, harsh weather conditions, including high winds, thunderstorms, and lightning, have made the search challenging at various times.

Canine tracking dogs, Teton County Search and Rescue’s helicopter, and specialized electronic tracking equipment have been deployed to assist in locating Gardner. The operation has not been without its challenges, as at least two rescuers have experienced medical conditions due to the demanding conditions. Authorities have urged anyone with information about Gardner’s whereabouts to contact the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office or the Wyoming Missing Person Tip line.

In the face of this unsettling situation, the community has come together to offer support and prayers for Gardner’s safe return. As searchers bravely navigate the unforgiving terrain of the Cloud Peak Wilderness area, the hope remains that Gardner will be located swiftly. Updates on the search effort will continue to be provided as new information emerges, emphasizing the importance of remaining vigilant and united during times of crisis.

The disappearance of Grant Gardner serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with venturing into the wilderness, especially during adverse weather conditions. As authorities work tirelessly to locate Gardner and bring him to safety, the collective thoughts and well-wishes of the public are with his family and the dedicated search teams involved in the operation. The outcome of this search remains uncertain, but the resolve and determination of all those involved in the rescue efforts shine through amidst the challenging circumstances.