Missing in the Mountains: The Urgent Search for Rodney Guilinger
One Trip, Then Silence
Missing person in Colorado. The Colorado wilderness can be beautiful—peaceful even. But for one family, it has become a place of fear. Rodney Guilinger, 64, disappeared earlier this week after a solo camping trip. His family is desperate for answers.
Rodney left Alamosa, Colorado, on Wednesday. He planned to stop in Conejos County to scout a future camping area. According to his granddaughter Alexis, he intended to stay one night. But he never returned.
Now, the family is left asking: where is Rodney?
Vehicle Found, Rodney Guilinger Missing
On Thursday, authorities discovered his vehicle abandoned. It was located along Forest Service Road 380, deep in the rugged terrain of Conejos County. The discovery gave searchers a starting point. But since then, there’s been no sign of Rodney himself.
What makes this situation more alarming is Rodney’s cognitive condition. He suffers from a medical impairment and relies on daily medication. Without it, he may become confused or disoriented. Every passing hour increases the urgency of this search.
Massive Search Underway
By Saturday, over 45 volunteers joined local law enforcement in a coordinated search. They combed the forest, followed trails, and called out his name. So far, they’ve come up empty.
The terrain is rough and isolated. Temperatures at night drop quickly. Days are warm but unpredictable. For someone without shelter or supplies, conditions could be life-threatening. Time is not on their side.
What He Was Last Wearing
Rodney was last seen in khaki pants, a green flannel shirt, and tennis shoes. He also wore a camouflage hat. These details matter. Anyone hiking, driving, or camping in the area should keep an eye out for a man matching this description.
Searchers are also asking people with trail cameras or drones to review their footage. Even a brief glimpse could help locate him.
Family Holding On to Hope
Alexis, Rodney’s granddaughter, has become the family’s voice. She has been updating friends, volunteers, and the media. Her love for her grandfather is clear. She refuses to give up hope.
“Please help us find him,” she said. “We just want him home safe.”
Rodney is not just a missing person. He’s a grandfather, a friend, and a man who loves the outdoors. He has people waiting for him—hoping, praying, and searching.
How You Can Help
If you have seen Rodney or know anything about his location, call authorities immediately. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation and Conejos County Sheriff’s Office are leading the effort. Any detail—no matter how small—can help.
Contact: CBI Tip Line: (303) 239-4201
Conejos Sheriff: (719) 376-2196
Even if you weren’t in the area, share this story. Spread his photo. Let others know. The more eyes watching, the better the chances of bringing him home.
Rodney’s family needs answers. Let’s help them find peace.
