Search for Missing Hiker in the Colfax Area 

January 4, 2026 – Placer County Sheriff’s Office officials report that deputies are searching for a missing woman in the area of Codfish Falls Trail outside of Colfax.

Search efforts are ongoing by land, air, and water. On Saturday, our dive team and boats were on the river conducting search operations, while air assets checked the area where the woman was last seen, as well as both upstream and downstream from that location. CAL FIRE NEU and Auburn State Recreation Area have been on scene assisting, and we have coordinated with California Governor's Office of Emergency Services to utilize their FIRIS technology during overnight search efforts.

The search began shortly before 6:00 p.m. Friday evening after we received a report that a woman may be missing. We’ve since learned that around 2:30 p.m., the woman was seen walking the trail with her dog. At approximately 2:45 p.m., the dog was later observed alone.

During the initial search Friday night, deputies located the woman’s vehicle in the area. Her phone and a dog bowl were also found along the river. The dog has been located and is safe.

This remains an active and ongoing search involving multiple teams working together.

Source & photos: Placer County Sheriff’s Office