Desperate search for hiker, 24, who vanished in California canyon prowled by bears, lions and snakes

Search and rescue teams from across Northern California were desperately hunting for a young hiker who vanished in Placer County’s wild American River Canyon.

Ian Roberts, 24, drove to the remote rural riverway for a solo walk Friday and hasn’t been seen since. Time is running out, said police, on day two of a massive search for the missing Placer County resident.

“Time is of the essence,” Elise Soviar, spokeswoman for Placer County Sherriff’s Office told The California Post.

“Search and rescue crews came in this morning from even more agencies today, so they are already out in the field back at the search.”

Land and water search teams from Napa, Santa Clara, Marin, Sacramento Counties have joined Placer County and other search teams in a massive hunt for Roberts.  With temperatures expected to 94 degrees, dozens are searching before it’s too late.

Bordered by rugged gorges carved by three forks of the American River, the breathtaking American River Canyon area runs though the western Sierra Nevada foothills, extending from the Sierras to Folsom Lake.

Roberts, a regular hiker, most likely planned a rugged march through the canyons populated by black bears, mountain lions and rattlesnakes when he parked his car at Overlook Park in Auburn, which serves as a trailhead for several pathways, Soviar said.

When Roberts’ concerned parents hadn’t heard from him by Saturday morning, they called police to report him missing. Cops quickly located Roberts’ empty vehicle by the trailhead, and the canyon search was on.

“We believe that he went hiking down into the American River Canyon, and it can get steep,” Soviar said. “It’s been really hot the last couple of days, so we really appreciate all these volunteers coming out here to help.”

While the brutal sun could easily stricken Roberts with dehydration, the American River is also known for wild animals. Snakes, bears and big, predatory cats are regularly sighted there hunting for food.

The zone is known for its hazardous gorges, many of which fall steeply into the rushing river below.

While known for hiking and camping, the river is also a spot where modern-day prospectors pan for gold. Recreational panning there is allowed with hand tools only, while collecting rocks, artifacts, or plants is generally prohibited.

Ian Roberts is six feet tall, weighs 210 pounds, and was last seen wearing a brown t-shirt, dark shorts, gray shoes and possibly a beanie.

Soviar said anyone who spots the missing man should contact authorities immediately.