Hiker, 24, Found Dead on 'Rugged' Trail in Texas National Park After Rangers Spot Unattended Car

Mar. 15, 2025

A photo of the Marufo Vega Trail in Big Bend National Park.Photo:Alamy

Alamy

A 24-year-old hiker has been found dead in Big Bend National Park, Texas.

A photo of the Marufo Vega Trail sign in Big Bend National Park.Getty

Getty

“Records indicated that there were no overnight backpackers listed for that area for those nights,” the NPS stated.

The NPS confirmed a Department of Public Safety helicopter “was utilized to remove the body.”

PerAccuWeather, temperatures hit a high of 91 degrees Fahrenheit in Big Bend National Park on Monday, which was the day the hiker’s body was found.

The NPS warned people that the Marufo Vega Trail “is a spectacular yet challenging 14-mile loop that winds through rugged desert and along rocky limestone cliffs,” per Monday’s release.

“No shade or water makes this trail dangerous during the warmer times of year,” the NPS added.

“Our entire park family extends condolences to the hiker’s family and friends,” Gupman added, per the release.

A photo of the Marufo Vega Trail in Big Bend National Park.Getty

NPS park rangers warned anyone traveling to the park to be prepared for high temperatures, telling hikers to “carry plenty of water, salty snacks, and to plan on being off desert trails during the heat of the afternoon.”

“Even though it is late October, daily temperatures along the Rio Grande and desert areas of Big Bend remain extreme; close to 100 degrees each afternoon. Park Rangers wish to remind all visitors to be aware of the dangers of extreme heat,” the release stated.

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In a message on the NPSwebsite, hikers are told they “must be duly prepared for the challenges” of the Marufo Vega Trail.

“Marufo Vega is pleasant to hike during the winter months, but hikers have died in the intense heat of spring and summer. This combination of factors make this trail potentially deadly from April through September,” a message read, urging people to “start this hike early in the day when temperatures are cooler.”

“No Cell Coverage Here. Always tell someone your plans and when you expect to return before heading out,” the NPS added in the description.

Big Bend National Park itself covers more than 800,000 acres and contains more than 201 miles of hiking trails. It’s also the 15th largest national park in the U.S., per the NPSwebsite.

source: people.com