Olympic National Park search launched for missing 26-year-old hiker

A massive search effort is underway for 26-year-old Neil Gehring, who vanished during an off-trail excursion in Olympic National Park. According to the National Park Service, Gehring left the Madison Falls Trailhead last Monday with a backcountry permit to hike from Boulder Lake to Appleton Pass.

Gehring was reported overdue at 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, the morning after his planned return. The search area involves rugged terrain and steep slopes near Port Angeles along the Pacific coastline. Gehring is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing approximately 130 pounds, with a slender build, short black hair, and brown eyes.

Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch Tip Line.