On August 19, 1975, Fred Gist and two hiking partners departed Cedar Grove on horseback intending to reach Simpson Meadow within Kings Canyon National Park for a multi-day camping trip. The three men overshot their designated camping site by approximately 2 miles. The Cedar Grove horse packer, a few miles behind, caught up to the three men and advised them to return to the designated campsite with the horses. Mr. Gist refused to return to the campsite. Mr. Gist was left with some food rations and instructed to remain at that location so his party could rendezvous with him in the morning. The horse packer also took Mr. Gist's horse back to the campsite with the group. Mr. Gist was not seen again. A multi-day search-and-rescue uncovered no sign of Mr. Gist.