The Marufo Vega Trail is one of the park's most rugged locations / NPS

On Monday, October 28, search teams from the National Park Service and U.S. Border Patrol, with helicopter support from Texas Department of Public Safety and U.S. Customs Air and Marine Operations, located the body of a 24-year-old hiker on the Marufo Vega Trail in Big Bend National Park.

The previous day, park rangers noticed a car that had been parked for several days at the trailhead for the Marufo Vega, Strawhouse, and Ore Terminal Trails. Records showed no overnight backpackers were registered in the area. A quick aerial search couldn’t locate any hikers nearby, so on Monday morning, the park’s search and rescue team launched a coordinated search across three trails, with air support scanning the remote terrain. The hiker was found on the challenging Marufo Vega Trail. The Department of Public Safety helicopter was used to recover the body from the rugged location.

The Marufo Vega Trail, a stunning but intense 14-mile loop, cuts through tough desert landscapes and rocky limestone cliffs. With no shade or water, the trail poses serious risks, especially in warmer months.

“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.”

Though it’s late October, temperatures along the Rio Grande and Big Bend desert areas are still soaring close to 100 degrees each afternoon. Park Rangers remind visitors to stay aware of extreme heat dangers. Hikers should carry plenty of water, salty snacks, and aim to finish desert hikes before the afternoon heat peaks.