Search launched for missing backpacker in Olympic National Park

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A search has been launched for a 21-year-old Maryland man who went missing while hiking in Olympic National Park late last week.

Park Rangers said John Solomon had a wilderness permit for a visit to the park for July 22 through July 26, and had planned to hike back to the Graves Creek Trailhead via Enchanted Valley, Anderson Pass, Camp Siberia, LaCrosse Pass, Two Bear, and Six Ridge.

Park Rangers found Solomon’s vehicle at the Graves Creek Trailhead in the Quinault Rain Forest.

Three "hasty search teams" made up of park staff and volunteers with Olympic Mountain Rescue were reportedly searching for Solomon Wednesday and going over possible routes the hiker could have taken on his itinerary.

Solomon also had an additional permit beginning July 26 for an overnight trip in the Hoh Rain Forest.

A family member reported him missing to park dispatch at 10 a.m. Tuesday, when the family did not hear from him after he was supposed to exit the wilderness from his second planned trip.

Officials with Olympic National Park said additional resources for the search are being coordinated.

Solomon is described as being 6-foot-1, 150 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was wearing a Yellowstone baseball cap and carrying a blue Kelty backpack.

Authorities are asking anyone who was in the area of Enchanted Valley, Anderson Pass, North Fork Skokomish Trail above Spike Camp, or Six Ridge from Wednesday, July 22 through Sunday, July 26 who may have seen Solomon, or have any information about him, to call or text 888-653-0009.

Officials said information from other day hikers and backpackers is often extremely valuable during searches.