Why So Many Hikers Go Missing In Yosemite National Park

The historic Yosemite National Park, which was first placed under protection in 1864, is on almost everyone's national park bucket list. However, this park, which sprawls across nearly 1,200 acres in Central California, is not only one of America's most popular national parks, it is also one of the most dangerous national parks in the U.S. Although it doesn't lay claim to the deadliest national park, it does rank at the top of the list when it comes to missing persons within its boundaries.

So, how often do hikers go missing in Yosemite National Park? Quite frequently. Just in the three-year period between 2018 and 2020, there were 732 search-and-rescue operations conducted within Yosemite. Unfortunately, not all of these rescue operations have been successful. In addition to those hikers who died before rescue efforts located them, there are close to three dozen unresolved missing persons cases in Yosemite. The National Park Service even maintains a Missing Persons in Yosemite page to help resolve some of the more recent cases.

It is typically believed the reason for so many lost and missing hikers in Yosemite is at the root of the park's attraction — the vast, rugged landscape. Additionally, there are a number of creatures to beware of when adventuring in Yosemite. The area is also vulnerable to volatile weather conditions. Together, these factors make Yosemite more prone to such incidents than many other national parks.

The vast majority of those who end up missing in national parks across the U.S., including Yosemite, are on a solo hike. However, there are steps you can take to avoid going missing while adventuring in Yosemite National Park whether you are with a group or trying to ensure a safe solo adventure.

According to a Fox59 interview with survivalist Jason Marsteiner, a lack of planning was the common denominator in most of the lost or missing person incidents in national parks. Before embarking on any excursion in the outdoors, it is important to have a plan, to inform others of that plan, and to stick with the plan once in the field. By doing so, you not only decrease the odds of getting lost, but also increase the odds of being found by immediately narrowing the search area should you become lost or stranded.

Another key is to be adequately prepared for unexpected circumstances. Due to the nature of their planned outings, day hikers tend to not carry as many supplies as overnight adventurers. This can become a real issue should they become lost or stranded — especially in a place with such rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions as Yosemite National Park. So, regardless of how long you intend to be on the trail, it is imperative to pack an emergency supply bag and include items such as an emergency thermal blanket and a first aid kit, such as the Everlit Survival First Aid Kit, which includes not just first aid supplies, but also handy items such as a flashlight, compass, knife, multitool, and paracord.