The New York Department of Environmental Conservation has reduced its search for Leo DuFour, a 22-year-old from Vaudreuil, Quebec, to a “limited continuous” operation due to extreme conditions and a lack of new leads. DuFour went missing after setting out to hike Allen Mountain in Essex County on Nov. 29.
DuFour’s vehicle was found covered in snow at the Mount Adams trailhead on Dec. 1, but tracking efforts were hindered by fresh snowfall. Rangers covered nearly 400 miles, and State Police used helicopters to assist in the week-long search. The operation has now transitioned to a recovery mission.

DuFour was last seen wearing a black coat, black pants, and a tan winter hat. The DEC advises against independent search attempts. Anyone with information should contact New York State Police at 518-897-2000.