Spanish search and rescue teams are actively searching the rugged terrains of the Pyrenees for Cole Henderson, an American hiker who has been unaccounted for since July 9. The 27-year-old informed friends that he was heading into the mountains and would be switching his phone to airplane mode before embarking on his adventure. He last reached out from near Mount Perdido, a challenging hiking destination located in Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.
According to social media updates from friends and family, Henderson texted around 2 p.m. on that day after parking his vehicle in Torla, a village close to the park's entrance. "We aren't entirely sure of his path, but it's believed he entered the park from Torla," noted Max Senoff, a close friend of Henderson. The young traveler had moved to Amsterdam for work and was concluding his vacation in Spain, having previously attended the Running of the Bulls festival in Pamplona.
Mount Perdido, standing as the third-highest peak in the Pyrenees, presents a steep and challenging hike, especially as one approaches the summit. Though the climb is not classified as technical and can typically be completed in one day, Henderson's failure to return raised alarms. Friends reported him missing when he did not catch his scheduled flight back home to the Netherlands over the weekend.
The Guardia Civil, Spain’s national police force, initiated a search operation on July 14 in the Huesca province, where the national park is located. Search and rescue teams have utilized helicopters and specialized rescue units in an attempt to locate Henderson. His vehicle was discovered parked in Torla, which typically serves as a base for summer hikers heading into the park's vast wilderness. Additionally, a receipt for camping fuel—often used for outdoor cooking—was found among his belongings, as relayed by his friend Senoff.
The national park, nestled along Spain’s northeastern frontier with France, is renowned for its picturesque meadows, towering canyons, and mountainous landscapes, including Mount Perdido. Known for his travel enthusiasm and penchant for outdoor adventures, Henderson is celebrated among peers for orchestrating group trips and relishing in nature excursions. His online presence reflects a lifestyle dedicated to exploring national parks and scaling mountains.
Friends describe Henderson as a sociable, engaging individual who excels at bringing people together. "He is meticulous in his planning," remarked Senoff, recalling how Henderson had shared his itinerary ahead of his trip to Spain. The search continues as concerned friends and family await news on the missing hiker's fate.
