The Hidden Lake Lookout Trail disappearances and the incredible volunteer searches

hidden lake trail washington

Revised April 2024

In October 2019, Rachel Lakoduk and, in May 2021, Tom Simonseth vanished from the beautiful Hidden Lake Lookout Trail in the North Cascades National Park, Washington.

Nearly two years later, volunteer searchers Kevin Dares and Bud Carr finally located Rachel’s remains, whilst Tom’s were found a few months after he disappeared by his close friend, Mike Woodmansee.

The story of how both sets of remains were finally discovered is a testament to the determination of volunteers to carry on the effort after official search and rescue efforts had ended.

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The Hidden Lake Lookout Trail disappearances and the incredible volunteer searches

Rachel Lakoduk disappearance

Rachel Lakoduk

Tom Simonseth, left, and Mike Woodmansee, right

Tom Simonseth, left, and Mike Woodmansee, right

The Lookout on the Hidden Lake Trail

The Lookout on the Hidden Lake Trail

Hidden Lake Lookout Trail in the North Cascades National Park

Hidden Lake Lookout Trail in the North Cascades National Park

Kevin Dares (left) and Bud Carr (right)

Kevin Dares (left) and Bud Carr (right)

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The strange disappearance of Mike Hearon from the Great Smoky Mountains