Coordinated Search Underway for Missing American Hiker in the Pyrenees

Fri Oct 24 2025 11:52:17 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

**Coordinated Search Underway for Missing American Hiker in the Pyrenees**

Cole Henderson, 27, has been unaccounted for since July 9 after embarking on a solo hiking adventure in Spain's Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.

**Authorities, aided by aerial and ground search teams, are actively hunting for Henderson, last known to have left his car in Torla before signaling friends with plans to hike.**

Spanish search and rescue units are intensifying efforts to locate Cole Henderson, a 27-year-old American hiker last heard from on July 9. The young adventurer, who had texted friends about switching his phone to airplane mode before tackling a hike, has not been in contact since. He was in northeastern Spain, preparing to explore the challenging terrain of Mount Perdido within Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park.

Henderson, who relocated from the United States to Amsterdam for work, had recently participated in the Running of the Bulls festival in Pamplona. After informing friends of his hiking intentions around 2 p.m. local time, he parked his vehicle in the small village of Torla, which serves as a common starting point for many hikers during the busy summer season.

According to friends, Henderson's absence became alarming when he missed his scheduled flight back to the Netherlands over the weekend. Following the report of him missing, authorities including the Guardia Civil launched a search operation on July 14. Search and rescue teams have been deployed with helicopters flying over the mountainous region, looking for any signs of the missing hiker.

Henderson’s vehicle was found parked at the Torla lot. Additionally, a receipt for camping fuel—indicative of his preparedness for an overnight stay—was discovered, further leading friends to speculate that he might have intended to spend some time in the wilderness.

The majestic park, nestled along Spain's northeastern frontier with France, is recognized for its breathtaking meadows, steep canyons, and towering rugged peaks. Henderson, known within his circle for his organization and passion for outdoor activities, has shared numerous exciting travel experiences online, showcasing his enthusiasm for hiking and mountaineering.

“Cole’s always been the one to plan group adventures, and he has a knack for fostering companionship,” said Max Senoff, a close friend. Senoff, who shared that Henderson meticulously outlined his itinerary for the Spain trip, described him as sociable and driven. "We are just all hoping for his safe return," he added.

Authorities continue to keep the hopes alive as the search proceeds with a focus on finding Cole Henderson against the stunning yet challenging backdrop of the Pyrenees.