Search intensifies for missing cruise ship passenger who vanished during day hike in Alaska
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the search for Marites "Tess" Buenafe, a 62-year-old doctor from Kentucky, who went missing while hiking in Juneau, Alaska, has come to a close.
On July 1, Buenafe, a passenger on the Norwegian Bliss, a cruise ship touring Alaska, decided to take the Goldbelt Tram up Mount Roberts and hike the Gold Ridge and Gastineau Peak trail solo. She was last heard from around 7:30 a.m., when she informed her family of her plans. Unfortunately, she did not return to the cruise ship before its 1:30 p.m. departure.
The trail, a moderately challenging four-mile path that reaches elevations of around 1,900ft (580m), is known for its stunning views but can be treacherous in unfavourable weather conditions.
The search operation for Buenafe was led by Alaska State Troopers, with assistance from Juneau Mountain Rescue, Juneau Police Department, and Southeast Alaska Dogs for Organized Ground Search (SEADOGS). The search involved the use of canine teams, helicopters, and drones.
However, poor weather conditions on Wednesday, July 2, obstructed aerial efforts. Despite this setback, ground searches continued.
On July 3, Buenafe's body was spotted approximately 1,700 feet below the ridge by an Alaska Army National Guard helicopter crew. Her body was recovered with the assistance of Temsco Helicopters and the National Guard.
Our thoughts are with Buenafe's family and friends during this difficult time. The Juneau Police Department has asked anyone with information on Buenafe to contact Alaska State Troopers in Juneau at (907) 465 4000.
[1] Alaska Public Media. (2025, July 3). Missing Hiker Tess Buenafe Found Dead in Juneau. Retrieved from https://www.alaskapublic.org/2025/07/03/missing-hiker-tess-buenafe-found-dead-in-juneau/
[2] KTOO. (2025, July 1). Juneau Police Department Receives Report of Overdue Hiker. Retrieved from https://www.ktoo.org/2025/07/01/juneau-police-department-receives-report-of-overdue-hiker/
[3] Juneau Empire. (2025, July 2). Search for Missing Hiker Tess Buenafe Continues. Retrieved from https://juneauempire.com/news/local/2025-07-02/search-for-missing-hiker-tess-buenafe-continues
[4] KINY. (2025, July 3). Missing Hiker Tess Buenafe Found Dead. Retrieved from https://www.kinyradio.com/2025/07/03/missing-hiker-tess-buenafe-found-dead/
During her solo hike on Mount Roberts' Gold Ridge and Gastineau Peak trail, Buenafe did not participate in any sports activities due to her tragic disappearance. Her family, friends, and the community are encouraged to reflect on sports and outdoor activities, remembering Buenafe's love for life and adventures.
