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Hiker still missing despite extensive searching in Elk Valley

A male hiker reported missing late Aug. 21 still remains missing.
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Missing hiker Kevin Kennedy

By Sheena Read

Editor Nanton News

A male hiker reported missing late Aug. 21 still remains missing.

Kevin Kennedy, a 59-year-old man from Australia, was hiking alone, and was reported overdue in the Highwood Pass area of Peter Lougheed Provincial Park in Kananaskis Country.

A immediate but limited search, due to approaching darkness, could not produce any sign of the missing hiker.

An organized search on Monday, Aug. 22, utilizing ground teams and a helicopter. Aerial search efforts were hampered by strong winds. No indications of the missing person were detected.

The search continued Aug. 23-24, using a helicopter and about 30 ground team members, including RCMP, public safety staff, conservation officers and trail crew. Volunteers from Foothills, Cochrane and Elkford, BC Search and Rescue Teams also took part.

Kennedy had been planning to hike over Grizzly Col and complete the Tyrwitt Loop. It is uncertain if he was on these trails as no indications have been found at all.

Public assistance is now being requested in helping to locate the missing subject.

Anyone who was hiking in the Highwood Pass area of Kananaskis on Sunday Aug.21, who believe they may have encountered the subject, is asked to contact the Kananaskis RCMP at (403) 591-7707. This information may be important in determining locations for Kennedy.

Description: Australian accent 6 feet tall, 170 lbs Grey thinning hair Glasses

Last seen wearing a light blue shirt, khaki shorts, brown/orange fleece, dark colored hat, blue backpack. Carrying a navy blue rain coat.