A hiker has been killed in a suspected mountain lion attack in the US state of Colorado, wildlife officials confirmed Wednesday. If verified, this would mark the first fatal mountain lion attack in the state since 1999.

The incident occurred on the Crosier Mountain Trail, a remote and secluded path north of Denver near the Wyoming border and close to Rocky Mountain National Park. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), the woman appeared to be hiking alone when the attack happened.

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Discovery of the Victim

A group of hikers found the woman’s body on the trail and observed a mountain lion nearby. They attempted to scare off the predator by throwing rocks, but upon checking, they could find no pulse.

CPW spokeswoman Kara Van Hoose said it is currently unclear whether a single mountain lion or multiple animals were responsible for the attack. The hikers’ quick response may have prevented further immediate danger.

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Response and Investigation

CPW officers responding to the scene shot at the mountain lion, which initially ran off but was later tracked and euthanized. A second lion found nearby was also euthanized as a precaution.

“If neither lion appears to be the culprit, the search will continue for the responsible animal,” Van Hoose said.

Under Colorado law, any wildlife that kills a human must be euthanized to ensure public safety. Investigators are examining the euthanized lions for signs of human DNA to determine which, if either, was involved in the attack.

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Area and Trail Conditions

The Crosier Mountain Trail is known for its remoteness. Hikers often lose cell phone signal in the area, increasing risks in emergencies. The region is popular with hikers and wildlife enthusiasts but remains largely secluded.

Assisting CPW in the investigation were:

• Larimer County Sheriff’s Office
• Police from Estes Park
• Volunteer firefighters
• A helicopter biologist conducting a deer survey
• Houndsmen who used dogs to track scents of the mountain lions

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History of Mountain Lion Attacks in Colorado

Mountain lion attacks in Colorado are extremely rare. CPW has recorded 28 total attacks since 1990, with fatalities being far less common. Mountain lions, also known as pumas, cougars, catamounts, or panthers, inhabit much of North America but are now mostly found in 15 western US states, according to the Mountain Lion Foundation.

These predators are solitary by nature and spend the majority of their time hunting for deer and other prey. Fatal encounters with humans remain uncommon, especially for hikers following safety precautions.

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Public Safety and Awareness

Authorities urge hikers to remain vigilant when traveling in areas known to host mountain lions. Safety recommendations include:

• Traveling in groups
• Keeping children and pets close
• Making noise to avoid surprising wildlife
• Carrying deterrents such as bear spray
• Avoiding hiking alone in remote areas

The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office has notified the woman’s next of kin, and her identity will be released later.

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Conclusion

The suspected mountain lion attack on the Crosier Mountain Trail underscores the risks associated with Colorado’s wilderness areas, where human and wildlife territories intersect. While rare, such attacks highlight the importance of preparedness and caution when hiking in remote regions frequented by large predators.