In 2012, Garrett Beckwith and his 19-year-old daughter, Della, set out on what was meant to be a thrilling father-daughter climbing adventure to Mount Hooker in Wyoming. Known for their shared love of the outdoors, the pair had spent years exploring trails, summits, and remote wilderness areas together. This expedition promised to be another unforgettable chapter in their bond, blending challenge, exploration, and quality time in nature.
But the journey that began with anticipation and excitement quickly became one of Wyoming’s most enduring mysteries. Garrett and Della never returned. Despite immediate search efforts, extensive ground expeditions, and aerial surveys, no trace of them was found for years. The disappearance puzzled authorities, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts alike, leaving families across the state shaken and communities holding their breath.
The story haunted the climbing and hiking community for over a decade. Mount Hooker is a rugged and challenging location, with steep cliffs, unpredictable weather, and remote terrain that can make search and rescue operations extremely difficult. Over the years, speculation about the duo’s fate ranged from accidental falls to being stranded in the wilderness, but no evidence had emerged—until now.
Recently, search teams have finally located their cliff camp, the site where Garrett and Della had set up for their expedition. The discovery has provided long-awaited answers to a mystery that has gripped the state for 11 years. Investigators are examining the site to better understand the circumstances that led to the pair’s disappearance. While the discovery cannot undo the tragedy, it offers closure to a family and community that had hoped for news for more than a decade.
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