A frantic search is underway in Yosemite National Park for a 24-year-old hiker who was carried away by swift currents over the weekend. Hayden Klemenok vanished on Sunday afternoon while hiking with friends near Upper Chilnualna Falls. According to park officials, he was last seen near Chilnualna Creek, close to the trail junction, around 2 p.m. He had paused by the creek, possibly to get a drink or cool off, when the strong current pulled him under.

At the time of his disappearance, Klemenok was wearing a tan brimmed hat, white sunglasses, a red T-shirt, blue swimming trunks, and white Adidas shoes. The park has released a photograph of him in this attire to aid in the search efforts.

Klemenok, a San Diego State University graduate and financial analyst residing in the Bay Area, was on an annual hiking trip with his college friends, according to his father, Kevin Klemenok. Witnesses recounted to KNSD-TV that Klemenok was on his hands and knees by the edge of the fast-flowing river when he was swept away.

The challenging Chilnualna Falls Trail, where Klemenok disappeared, stretches eight miles and involves a 2,400-foot elevation gain. The park's website characterizes the trail as "strenuous" but rewarding, offering scenic views of the falls and Wawona Dome.

Park officials are urging anyone who was hiking in the vicinity of Upper Chilnualna Falls on Sunday afternoon to come forward with any information, regardless of whether they saw Klemenok. They emphasize that even seemingly insignificant details about hikers' locations and times could be crucial in narrowing down the search area. Information can be provided to [email protected] or by calling 209-379-1992.