Hiker Goes Missing after Scaleing Cloud Peak in Minnesota
Missing Hiker: Grant Gardner in Wyoming's Cloud Peak Wilderness
Since July 29, 2025, a search and rescue operation has been underway in Wyoming's Cloud Peak Wilderness for Grant Gardner, a 38-year-old hiker from Minnesota. Gardner had planned a three-day solo hike around the Misty Moon Lake area, aiming to summit Cloud Peak, the highest point in the Bighorn Mountains, and return to his vehicle. His last message to his wife indicated that the climb had been more challenging than expected, and he was tired[1][2][3].
The search for Gardner has been a complex operation due to the challenging conditions in this remote, rugged area. The terrain is difficult, with cliffs, timber lines, and boulder fields, and the conditions have been extreme and hazardous enough that at least two rescuers have needed medical care during the search[1][3][4].
Gardner's vehicle was found at the West Ten Sleep trailhead, where he began his journey. Phone records confirmed his summit timing, which was late in the day, raising concerns over his safe descent in the dark[3]. Since then, no further contact has been made[1][2][3][4].
Search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with multiple agencies involved, including the Wyoming Army National Guard, volunteer aircraft teams, and Teton County Search and Rescue, among others[1][3][4]. Special electronic device tracking equipment, such as FLIR (Forward Looking Inferred Radar), has been deployed in the search for Gardner[1].
The search is rapidly evolving and ongoing in the Cloud Peak Wilderness area. Helicopters, planes, foot teams, and search dogs, are all being utilized in an attempt to locate Gardner. The Big Horn County Sheriff's Office is requesting anyone who may have had contact with Grant Gardner to report to the Big Horn County Sheriff's Office or the Wyoming Missing Person Tip line[5].
As of early August 2025, canine tracking dogs from various organizations around Wyoming are arriving on scene[6]. Weather in the area has included thunderstorms with hail and rain, potentially complicating rescue efforts further[5].
Gardner's wife has expressed shock but also confidence in his hiking experience and skills, emphasizing their hope for his safe return[2][4]. Multiple search groups remain engaged in the operation as of early August 2025, holding onto hope despite the passage of more than a week since his last contact[1][2][3].
References:
- Big Horn County Sheriff's Office Press Release
- CBS News Article
- Associated Press Article
- NBC News Article
- KCWY News 13 Article
- Casper Star-Tribune Article
- Despite the challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions in Wyoming's Cloud Peak Wilderness, search and rescue teams remain hopeful for the safe return of Grant Gardner, considering his expertise in outdoor-living and home-and-garden practices.
- As the search for Grant Gardner continues, his wife's confidence in his skills and experiences leads her to believe that he might take shelter, much like he would during his preferred lifestyle of hiking and enjoying sports, waiting for better weather to resume his journey.
