According to a press release from the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office, the ground search for missing hiker, 27-year-old Josh Hall, has been suspended. The suspension has been put in place until further notice pending new information or melting snow that will make the search effort safer and more feasible. Aviation efforts will continue if weather permits.

Hall was reported overdue on February 3 after departing from Hessie Trailhead near Nederland, Colorado. His vehicle was later found at the trailhead. A dog was with Hall at the time of his hike.

Hall’s phone last pinged near the Devil’s Thumb Trail/Diamond Lake cut-off. Searchers have scoured much of the area, including cabins and mine shafts found along 4th of July Road. They have since asked those that may be in the area to be on the lookout for a dog leash or discarded clothing.

It is estimated that 70 rescuers have spent approximately 650 total hours on the search.

Hessie Trailhead is a popular access point for Indian Peaks Wilderness, Devils Thumb, Lost Lake, Woodland Lake, King Lake, and the Diamond Lake Trails. The trailhead can get so busy that a shuttle service to the spot is offered during summer months.

Thanks goes out to those involved with this search, including Rocky Mountain Rescue Group, Alpine Rescue Team, Larimer County Search and Rescue, Diamond Peaks Ski Patrol, Front Range Rescue Dogs, Nederland Fire Protection District, Boulder Emergency Squad, Colorado Search and Rescue Association, Air Force Resource Coordination Center, Flight for Life Colorado, and the City of Boulder Watershed.

Colorado Search and Rescue is often operated on a volunteer basis. To support the effort, consider purchasing a CORSAR card. Find more information here.

When hiking in Colorado, always let someone know where you’re headed and when you’re expecting to be back. If entering the backcountry during winter months, make sure to check the Colorado Avalanche Information Center website and the National Weather Service website for information related to some risks and hazards that may be present. Always bring proper safety gear and know how to use it.