Woman Found Dead on Colorado Trail in Suspected Mountain Lion Attack

On January 1, 2026, a woman was discovered deceased along the Crosier Mountain trail in Larimer County, Colorado, with indications pointing to a possible mountain lion attack. Hikers encountered the scene around noon, observing a mountain lion near the woman's body. They managed to scare the animal away by throwing rocks but found the woman unresponsive upon approach.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officials, along with local law enforcement, responded promptly. Two mountain lions in the vicinity were euthanized to ensure public safety, adhering to CPW policy regarding wildlife involved in human attacks. Necropsies are planned to determine if these animals were involved and to check for diseases such as rabies or avian influenza.

This incident marks the first fatal mountain lion attack in Colorado since 1999. Over the past 35 years, the state has recorded 28 mountain lion attacks, with the last two fatalities occurring in the late 1990s.

In response, the U.S. Forest Service has temporarily closed several trails and trailheads in the area, including the Garden Gate Trailhead, Gravel Pit/Rainbow Trailhead, and Piper Meadows/Glen Haven Trailhead. There is no set timeline for reopening these areas.

CPW advises hikers to remain vigilant, travel in groups, and keep pets leashed. If encountering a mountain lion, individuals should make noise, appear larger by holding objects overhead, and back away slowly. In the event of an attack, fighting back is recommended.