The parents of a missing California hiker are holding onto hope that her expertise will lead her to safety.
According to the Monterey County Sherrif’s Office, 30-year-old Caroline Meister was last seen March 18 as she left for Tassajara Zen Mountain Center in Carmel Valley to go on a hike. Police said she only brought some light snacks and was not dressed for overnight weather.
Meister, according to her parents, John and Jean Meister, is an experienced and avid hiker who has lived and worked at the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, in Los Padres National Forest, for the past year and a half.
“She’s very familiar with the area, she’s also an avid hiker,” her father told KSBW.
Meister planned to hike a trail that would circle back to the Zen Center, potentially including the “Windcave Trail.” However, at around 11:30 p.m. that same night, over twelve hours after she left, she was reported missing.
“The Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team, Drone Team and a California Highway Patrol Helicopter have been working collaboratively throughout the day to attempt to locate Caroline,” police said.
“Additional resources are being requested to assist in continued search efforts.”
Meister is described as a white female who stands 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs around 150 pounds. She has long brown, wavy hair and was last seen wearing teal boots and carrying a blue bag.
“She is very strong and resilient and we have great faith she’s doing whatever she can to stay safe,” her mother said. “I have been holding an image of Caroline, wrapped in a blanket smiling caring her to safety and we are confident she will be found safe.”
Anyone with information on Meister’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office at 831-755-5111.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo via Monterey County Sheriff’s Office]
