The search for Austin King, a 22-year-old Yellowstone National Park employee, enters its second week as rescue teams face challenging conditions in their efforts to locate the missing Minnesota native.
At a Glance
- Austin King, 22, has been missing in Yellowstone National Park for over a week
- Last contact was on Sept. 17, 2024, from Eagle Peak, describing harsh weather conditions
- Search efforts involve over 20 ground personnel, helicopters, drones, and search dogs
- King failed to arrive for a prearranged boat pickup near Yellowstone Lake
Disappearance and Last Known Whereabouts
Austin King, a concession employee at Yellowstone National Park, was last heard from on September 17, 2024, around 7 p.m. when he made a call to a family member from the summit of Eagle Peak. During this call, King described encountering fog, rain, sleet, hail, and windy conditions, painting a picture of the challenging environment he faced.
King’s journey began on September 14 when he was dropped off by boat at Terrace Point on the shore of Yellowstone Lake. He had planned a seven-day trip to summit Eagle Peak, the highest point in the park at 11,358 feet. The following Monday, he was seen by a backcountry ranger near Howell Creek. King’s last known plans included staying at site 6D8 for the night before attempting to climb Eagle Peak.
Search and Rescue Efforts
Alarm bells rang when King failed to arrive for his prearranged boat pickup near Yellowstone Lake’s Southeast Arm on Friday. Search and rescue operations commenced on Saturday morning, involving a comprehensive approach to cover the vast and challenging terrain.
“More than 20 ground searchers, two helicopters, unmanned air systems and a search dog team participated in efforts to find King on Sunday,” according to a statement from park officials.
The search area is focused on the vicinity of Eagle Peak, Eagle Pass Mountain Creek Trail, and Eagle Creek Trailhead. This high-elevation region has proven to be particularly hazardous, with rescuers reporting accumulations of snow and ice, including 6-foot drifts on the peak. Despite these challenges, search teams remain committed to their mission, buoyed by forecasts of improving weather conditions.
Description and Public Appeal
Austin King is described as 6 feet tall, weighing 150-160 pounds, with brown hair, hazel eyes, and glasses. He was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt and gray pants, carrying a dark-colored backpack. The National Park Service has circulated a missing person flier with King’s description and images, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any potential sightings.
As the search continues, King’s family remains hopeful. His father, Brian King-Henke, has started a GoFundMe to support the rescue efforts, while his grandfather, Richard King, is providing updates on Facebook. The Yellowstone community and fellow Americans across the nation are united in their hope for Austin King’s safe return.
