Body of 24-Year-Old Hiker Found in Big Bend National Park

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK, TX – Authorities recovered the body of a 24-year-old hiker on Monday following a coordinated search along the Marufo Vega Trail, a rugged, 14-mile loop in Big Bend National Park.

The search involved National Park Service rangers, U.S. Border Patrol agents, and helicopters from Texas Department of Public Safety and U.S. Customs Air and Marine Operations.

The hiker’s vehicle had been spotted parked for several days at the Marufo Vega Trailhead, an area that lacked overnight backpacker registrations. Initial aerial searches on Sunday yielded no results. By Monday, a multi-agency search team deployed along the remote trail, where the hiker’s body was found. The Department of Public Safety helicopter later removed the body from the area.

The Marufo Vega Trail, known for its extreme heat and lack of shade or water, poses dangers for hikers, particularly in warmer months. Even in late October, temperatures along the Rio Grande reach nearly 100 degrees, heightening the risk for those unprepared.

“Big Bend National Park staff and partners are saddened by this loss,” stated Deputy Superintendent Rick Gupman. “Our entire park family extends condolences to the hiker’s family and friends.”

Park officials urge visitors to prepare adequately for the park’s extreme conditions, recommending water, salty snacks, and avoidance of afternoon hikes on desert trails.