Body of Missing Minnesota Climber Found in Wyoming Wilderness

The body of Grant Gardner, a 38-year-old climber from Lakeville, Minnesota, was found in Wyoming's Cloud Peak Wilderness after being missing since late July. Gardner had last contacted his wife on July 29 after summiting Cloud Peak, describing the climb as more taxing than expected. A professional climbing team from North Carolina spotted a reflection near their high-altitude camp on August 26, which led to the discovery of Gardner's remains near his backpack. The Big Horn County Sheriff's Office, along with Search and Rescue teams and the First Flight of Wyoming, conducted a difficult recovery operation before suspending the official search on August 20. Authorities believe Gardner succumbed to a tragic accident, and his body was transferred to the coroner's office to determine the cause of death before being returned to his family. Gardner had planned a three-day solo hike around Mistymoon Lake, and his clothing blending into the terrain had complicated earlier search efforts.