Six months after vanishing in the Adirondacks, Quebec hiker Leo Dufour’s body was found near Allen Mountain. Search resumed after snow melted this spring.
Remains of Missing Quebec Hiker Discovered in N.Y. Mountains
Nearly six months after he disappeared during a solo hiking trip, 22-year-old Quebec resident Leo Dufour has been found dead in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. U.S. officials confirmed the discovery this weekend following a report from fellow hikers.
The body was located near the Allen Mountain trail in Essex County, one of the more remote and rugged routes in the Adirondack High Peaks region.
Discovery Made by Hikers Near Allen Mountain
On Saturday morning, a group of hikers exploring the trail stumbled upon human remains and immediately alerted authorities. The New York State Police responded, along with forest rangers and an environmental investigator from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
By Sunday, Dufour’s identity was officially confirmed. The DEC extended condolences to the family and acknowledged the efforts of all search and rescue teams involved.
Dufour Went Missing in November During Solo Hike
Dufour was reported missing on November 30, 2024, after failing to return from what was supposed to be a one-day hike. His snow-covered car was later found at the trailhead, but heavy snowfall and deteriorating winter conditions hampered search efforts.
Multiple agencies initially launched an extensive search, but the mission was suspended as winter made the terrain increasingly hazardous. Efforts resumed this spring after snow began to melt across the Adirondack backcountry.
An Ambitious Adventurer and Aspiring ‘46er’
Dufour, a student at Université de Montréal, was passionate about nature and adventure. His Instagram profile showcased a life full of hiking, camping, and travel, including a dedicated album titled “46ers Club.”
The term “46er” refers to a group of outdoor enthusiasts who aim to climb all 46 Adirondack High Peaks, each towering over 4,000 feet. Dufour had already completed 32 of these summits, with his final documented hike being Mount Colden, standing at 4,714 feet.
Allen Mountain, where his body was found, is the 26th highest in the range, with an elevation of 4,340 feet.
Tributes and Reflection Following Tragic Loss
News of Dufour’s discovery has resonated deeply with the hiking and outdoor communities on both sides of the border. He is remembered not only for his adventurous spirit but also for his discipline and commitment to challenging goals. Authorities have not released further details regarding the cause of death, and the investigation remains ongoing.
In Memory
Leo Dufour’s journey was a testament to passion and perseverance. His tragic passing is a solemn reminder of both the beauty and the risks inherent in exploring the wilderness.
