Search Underway For Missing Hiker In Olympic National Park

PORT ANGELES, WA — The National Park Service and U.S. Coast Guard are searching for a hiker who was reported missing Wednesday after failing to return from the backcountry in Olympic National Park.

In a news release, park officials said Laura Macke, 35, drove to Quinault on Oct. 30 during a significant rainstorm. She had a backcountry permit for Oct. 30 - 31 and was traveling alone to the Enchanted Valley, with a planned camp at Pyrites Creek. Macke planned to continue in the backcountry on Nov. 1 but did not return, officials said.

Search and rescue teams deployed to the wilderness Thursday to quickly search the immediate area after she was reported missing. A Coast Guard helicopter attempted to assist from the air but was limited due to bad weather. More searches were planned Friday.

Macke is described as 5 feet 6 inches tall, with curly light brown hair in a bob cut. Officials said she is known to hike in a black and white striped shirt, with a black rain jacket and maroon puffy jacket, using a green Nemo-brand tent.

Anyone who was in the area of Lake Quinault, Graves Creek or Enchanted Valley, or with other information that could help locate MAcke can call or text the NPS tipline at 1-888-653-0009.