Hikers discovered the remains of Leo DuFour, a 22-year-old man from Vaudreuil, Quebec, Canada, in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State on May 10. DuFour had been missing for five months.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reported that the remains were located off the Allen Mountain Trail, a remote section of the Adirondack backcountry. A hiking party stumbled upon the remains that morning and immediately contacted authorities. Forest rangers and New York State Police officers responded to the scene to begin their investigation.
DuFour’s ambition was to conquer all 46 of the Adirondack high peaks. He embarked on a solo hiking trip on November 29, with the intention of returning the following day, November 30. Sadly, he never made it back.
According to the DEC, DuFour’s father reported him missing after he failed to return as scheduled. DuFour had signed the Mount Adams trail register on November 29, 2023, indicating his plan for a one-day solo hike to Allen Mountain, as reported by the Adirondack Explorer.
Law enforcement officials located DuFour’s vehicle at the Mount Adams trailhead near Newcomb. The car was covered in snow, suggesting that it had been there for some time. Searchers also found a set of tracks leading from DuFour’s vehicle, but recent snowfall hampered their efforts to track him effectively.
The last known location of DuFour was near the summit of Allen Mountain. Rangers discovered a water bottle above 3,500 feet in a slide area, which offered a clue to his potential route. Adding to the details of his journey, the Adirondack Explorer reported that DuFour’s cell phone connected to a satellite in two different locations.
The search for DuFour involved extensive efforts. At least 59 forest rangers dedicated themselves to searching nearly 400 miles on foot. The New York State Police provided crucial support, deploying two helicopters to transport crews, deliver essential supplies, and conduct aerial searches of the vast and challenging terrain.
Despite the extensive search efforts, no sign of DuFour was found, and authorities eventually made the difficult decision to transition the search into a recovery operation. On December 9, the active field search was scaled down to a limited continuous search. This meant that while active field operations were suspended, air searches and patrols continued in the hope of finding any trace of DuFour.
The DEC stated that agencies continued to search this spring as the snow gradually receded across the Adirondack backcountry, offering new opportunities to explore previously inaccessible areas.
Allen Mountain, the peak DuFour was attempting to climb, stands at 4,340 feet. Authorities confirmed that his car was found at the Mount Adams trailhead, while his remains were discovered on the Allen Mountain Trail. This trail is a lengthy 17.7-mile backcountry route that features a lake and is classified as "difficult" by Newcomb officials. Due to the challenging conditions, the trail is typically recommended for hiking between April and September.
Prior to his disappearance, DuFour had shared his passion for hiking in the Adirondacks on social media. In November 2023, he posted photos from a previous trip, captioning the post, "One of the best hikes I’ve done in my life." He had also visited the Adirondacks in April 2023, indicating that these trips were part of his larger goal of completing the 46 Adirondack high peaks. His social media posts reveal a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and challenges of the Adirondack Mountains.
The discovery of DuFour’s remains brings a somber conclusion to the search and provides closure for his family and friends. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance serve as a reminder of the inherent risks associated with hiking in remote and challenging environments, particularly during the winter months. The Adirondack backcountry, while offering stunning scenery and rewarding experiences, can also be unforgiving, with unpredictable weather conditions, rugged terrain, and limited accessibility.
The efforts of the forest rangers, New York State Police, and other agencies involved in the search highlight their dedication and commitment to protecting the safety of hikers and visitors in the Adirondack Park. Their tireless work, often in difficult and dangerous conditions, is essential for ensuring the well-being of those who venture into the wilderness. The recovery operation also underscores the importance of preparedness and caution when engaging in outdoor activities. Hikers should always be aware of their limitations, check weather conditions, plan their routes carefully, and carry appropriate gear, including maps, compasses, first-aid kits, and extra food and water.
The tragic loss of Leo DuFour serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of respecting the power of nature and taking the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the outdoors. His memory will likely serve as a motivation for other hikers to prioritize safety and preparedness in their own adventures.
