HAILEY, Idaho (KTVB) -- Family members of a missing hiker who worked in the Hailey area are still organizing private searches to try and locate him. Luke Richardson, 25, was last seen September 12 on Summit Creek Trail.

Ever since the Blaine County Sheriff's Office wrapped up the official search for Luke in late September, his parents have been organizing groups of volunteers and hiring professional help to figure out what happened to him. Luke's parents are from Barre, Vt. Peter Richardson says they've been using a helicopter service based in Twin Falls to haul people into the backwoods area where Luke might have traveled. The family is also working with dog handlers and Sawtooth Mountain guides.

A number of Luke's friends who often climbed with him are also helping search for him. Luke was on a solo hike when he went missing. The Blaine County Sheriff's Office combed through more than 51 square miles of rugged, treacherous terrain in the Pioneer Mountains. They found no sign of the 25-year-old. Peter Richardson says private search groups have been working through the Kane Lake region east of Ketchum. This weekend, volunteers and dog handlers plan to focus heavily on the Wilson Creek drainage.

Luke's father told KTVB he can't really speculate on what happened to his son out in the backcountry, but he thinks Luke was dabbling in free climbing. Luke moved to Idaho to work for ArborCare in Hailey. He's an experienced hiker and climber who family members say is loved and greatly missed. The Richardsons told us they're grateful for the outpouring of support they've received.

Anyone experienced in the outdoors who would like to volunteer their time to search for Luke is urged to write to this email: HelpfindLuke@gmail.com Family members say monetary donations have also helped keep the private search efforts going. To donate to the CrowdRise fund, click here.

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