Colorado Parks and Wildlife Concludes Search in Larimer County Mountain Lion Fatality Case

DENVER — The tragic death of a hiker on Crosier Mountain Trail has prompted extensive investigation and response from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). After over 72 hours of exhaustive searches, which included CPW officers, federal agency staff members, and trained houndsmen, the active pursuit for a third mountain lion involved in the incident has officially ceased.

A Somber Return to Normalcy

Crosier Mountain Trail, well-known for its stunning vistas and challenging terrain, has reopened to the public, although mountain lion warnings and educational signage will remain. These signs have been a standard feature on the trail, advising visitors on how to manage encounters with such apex predators. Trail users are reminded that they are entering the habitat of mountain lions and should therefore remain alert.

“Any sightings or conflicts involving mountain lions should be reported immediately,” urged CPW. They can be contacted via the Denver office at 303-291-7227, the Fort Collins office at 970-472-4300, or through the Colorado State Patrol at CSP (277).

Mark Leslie, CPW’s Regional Manager for the Northeast Region, expressed condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to the victim’s family. This is a heartbreaking tragedy. On New Year’s Day, she sought the solace of nature, and her failure to return is a loss we all feel deeply.”

CPW extends its gratitude to multiple agencies, including the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office and the Estes Park Police Department, for their invaluable assistance during this critical juncture.

Investigative Findings

Initial necropsy results reveal that two mountain lions — a male and female both approximately 12 months old — were involved in this unfortunate encounter. Both were found to be in excellent physical condition, and while human DNA was detected on the male’s paws, none was found on the female. Both lions tested negative for rabies, although the final necropsy report is pending.

On January 1, witnesses encountered a mountain lion over the victim’s body and attempted to scare it away with rocks while summoning emergency services. Upon police arrival, the male lion was shot by an officer and subsequently tracked down. A second lion, the female, was also euthanized nearby. Officers encountered a third mountain lion, but it eluded capture.

Leslie adds, “The presence of multiple lions in such close proximity is not coincidence. We do not make these decisions lightly; our primary responsibility is human safety, especially in such a rare and serious situation.”

Recent Mountain Lion Activity in Larimer County

There have been an uptick in mountain lion-related incidents in the region prior to this tragedy:

• Oct 28, 2025: A mountain lion attacked and killed a dog of a man hiking off-leash in Estes Park.
• Oct 29, 2025: A woman’s dog was taken by a lion on West Creek Road.
• Nov 12, 2025: A trail runner saw a lion on Crosier Mountain Trail but successfully deterred it.
• Nov 30, 2025: Two lions were reported by hikers near the Crosier Mountain Trail summit. The hikers managed to fend them off.
• Dec 23, 2025: An adult male lion was killed by a resident in Glen Haven after attacking his dog.

“Timely reporting can greatly enhance our efforts in managing mountain lion conflicts,” emphasized Jason Duetsch, CPW Area Wildlife Manager. “We urge all community members to report any encounters immediately.”

Why It Matters

The implications of these events extend beyond the immediate tragedy. Increased mountain lion activity can significantly affect hikers, local economies reliant on outdoor tourism, and conservationist efforts in the region. As populations of these apex predators grow, ensuring public safety while maintaining ecological balance becomes increasingly complex.

Properly addressing human-predator interactions is essential for preserving wildlife behavior and protecting lives. With Colorado being a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, ongoing education for visitors will be crucial in mitigating risks associated with mountain lion encounters.

Field Insights: Pro Tips for Staying Safe in Lion Country

Navigating areas frequented by mountain lions requires awareness and preparation. Here are essential strategies to enhance your safety:

• Stay Alert: Pay attention to your surroundings; avoid distractions like headphones.
• Group Dynamics: Hike in groups and keep children close to adults.
• Leash Your Pets: Keep dogs on leash and supervised, particularly during dawn and dusk when lions are most active.
• If You Encounter a Lion:
  • Make noise and raise your arms to seem larger.
  • Back away slowly—do not run.
  • If threatened, be prepared to fight back. Throwing objects may deter the animal.
• Secure Your Property: Avoid attracting deer or raccoons, which in turn can draw lions to your yard. Clear dense foliage that might provide cover for lions.

Mountain lion populations are a vital part of Colorado’s ecosystem but require careful management and awareness from the public. By enhancing public knowledge and fostering respectful coexistence, we can continue to enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado while ensuring safety for all.

For updates on this story and future developments in lion management and safety, stay tuned to The Outdoor Newspaper.