Missing Hiker in Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains

A hiker from Minnesota has been unaccounted for over a week since he vanished in Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains. His wife, Lauren Gardner, is striving to remain resilient for their two children, ages 13 and 11.

Grant Gardner last communicated with Lauren on July 29, informing her that he had reached the summit of Cloud Peak, which rises to 13,000 feet. However, there hasn’t been any contact from him since. The Bighorn County Sheriff’s Office has initiated a search and rescue operation, describing the conditions as particularly challenging.

Lauren explained that Grant has more than a decade of solo hiking experience. “He’s very detailed oriented and knows how to handle himself out there,” she remarked. “It feels surreal, and I’m just trying to stay strong for the kids. This isn’t typical for him, and he’s usually very cautious.”

Reports indicate that Grant was hiking through the Misty Moon Lake area and had planned a roughly three-day trip. After reaching the summit, he sent a text saying the climb was more taxing than he anticipated. It’s concerning since there are no clear trails in the area, making navigation tricky, especially after dark.

Authorities found Gardner’s vehicle in the parking area where he began his trek. The Sheriff’s Office highlighted the evolution of the search efforts, noting the rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions, including wind and thunderstorms. Search teams from multiple counties, as well as helicopters from the Wyoming Army National Guard, are involved in the ongoing search.

They are urging anyone who may have seen or interacted with Gardner to come forward and report to the Bighorn County Sheriff’s Office or the Wyoming Missing Person Tips Line.