CPW Euthanizes Two Mountain Lions Following Fatal Attack Near Estes Park
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In a heartbreaking turn of events on New Year's Day, a woman was found dead on the Crosier Mountain trail in Larimer County, Colorado, following a suspected mountain lion attack. The victim, who was hiking alone northeast of Estes Park, was discovered by a group of hikers shortly after noon.
The Encounter and Immediate Response
The hikers reported spotting a mountain lion standing near the woman's body from approximately 100 yards away. Acting quickly, they used rocks to scare the predator away before approaching to render aid. A physician among the group confirmed the woman had no pulse. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officials noted that the woman’s injuries were "consistent with a mountain lion attack," marking what could be the first fatal encounter in Colorado in over 25 years.
A History of Aggression in the Area
This tragedy follows a harrowing report from November 2025, where trail runner Gary Messina was forced to fight off a mountain lion on the same section of trail. Messina recounted a terrifying two-minute struggle where the cat lunged and circled him. He eventually escaped by striking the animal with a heavy branch. Messina later told authorities he believed the animal was triggered by his movement and feared for his life during the encounter.
Survival Strategy: What to do if You See a Lion
If you spot a mountain lion in the backcountry, you must convince it that you are a predator rather than prey. CPW and wildlife experts recommend the following safety protocols:
- Stay Calm and Stand Your Ground: Never run, as this can trigger a lion's instinct to chase.
- Maintain Eye Contact: Do not take your eyes off the animal. Maintaining eye contact can be seen as a provocation or a sign of a defiant demeanor.
- Appear Larger: Raise your arms, open your jacket, or hold objects like a stick or backpack above your head to maximize your silhouette.
- Be Loud and Firm: Speak in a deep, calm, yet loud and authoritative voice to discourage predatory behavior.
- Pick up Children and Pets: Immediately pick up small children or pets without turning away or bending over. Crouching makes humans resemble four-legged prey and leaves the neck vulnerable.
- Back Away Slowly: Face the lion and back away slowly only if it is safe to do so.
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Escalation and Defense
If a lion behaves aggressively or moves toward you:
- Throw Objects: Throw stones or branches at or near the animal without turning your back or crouching.
- Fight Back Aggressively: If attacked, do not play dead. Fight back with everything you have, including rocks, sticks, jackets, or your bare hands.
- Protect Vulnerable Areas: During an attack, try to remain standing and protect your head, throat, and neck.
CPW Safety Measures and Ongoing Search
Following the New Year's Day incident, CPW officers and dog teams located and euthanized two mountain lions in the immediate vicinity. A search for a third lion remains ongoing. Pathologists are conducting necropsies to check for neurological diseases, such as rabies or avian influenza, that could explain the aggressive behavior.
While mountain lion attacks are statistically rare, with only 28 reported in Colorado since 1990, officials remind everyone that Larimer County serves as prime habitat. The U.S. Forest Service has temporarily closed several trailheads, including Garden Gate and Piper Meadows, as the investigation continues.
