News Release
News Release Date: September 11, 2026
Contact:
National Park Service Investigative Services Branch Tip Line, 888-653-0009
PORT ANGELES, Wash. — The search for Neil Gehring in Olympic National Park will continue as tactics shift. Aerial, ground, drone, and dog teams have searched along Gehring’s expected route over the last ten days. Olympic National Park’s Search and Rescue team will now focus on finding new clues to guide future field efforts.
The investigation into this incident is ongoing. Anyone who was in the area or has information that may assist the search is asked to email OLYM_Tips@cloud.doi.gov or call the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch Tip Line at 888-653-0009.
Gehring left the Madison Falls Trailhead in Olympic National Park on August 31. According to his backcountry permit, Gehring intended to make a cross-country traverse from Boulder Lake to Appleton Pass, returning to the Madison Falls Trailhead on September 1. He was reported overdue at 6:30 a.m. on September 2. Search efforts began immediately after notification.
Olympic National Park is grateful for all the dedicated search and rescue teams that volunteered to assist with this effort.
Last updated: September 11, 2026