The weird disappearance of Richard R Lee from Colchuck Lake
Richard R. Lee disappeared September 9, 2004, Colchuck Lake, Wenatchee-Okanogan National Forest, Washington.
Revised September 2024
Richard R. Lee, 47, of Hobart, King County went hiking alone on September 9, 2004, on a trip expected to take two days, in the Wenatchee-Okanogan National Forest in Washington State. He was an experienced hiker in the wilderness and planned to explore the Colchuck Lake area, part of the Cascades.
The area was rugged, but the weather was perfect when Richard set out. During the two days, he phoned his brother using a cell phone to tell him all was well. Then he vanished.
The search for Richard Lee
On September 11, Richard Lee failed to return to his home in Hobart. The authorities were eventually informed of his disappearance on September 15 by his wife, who wasn't initially concerned when he didn't return home on the 11th.
Searchers quickly set up a 70-square-mile search area focusing on Lake Stuart, Colchuck Lake and the Enchantment Lakes southwest of Leavenworth. Unfortunately, up to eight inches of snow fell in the area simultaneously, making the efforts of the search and rescue teams more difficult. Three planes from the state Department of Transportation were used, and volunteers from King, Yakima and Kittitas Counties assisted Chelan County Mountain Rescue crews.
Searchers found Richard's car and, eventually, his campsite well off the trail. His kit, including his sleeping bag and food, was found in a tree to prevent bears from getting to it. But nothing else relating to Richard Lee was ever located. His remains, equipment, and clothing were never located.
Some searchers reported feeling "uncomfortable" around Lee's camp but weren't specific about why.
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