The Great Smoky Mountains National Park said it was searching for a hiker who was reported missing on Saturday.
Park officials said 73-year-old Ann Houghton had a planned itinerary to hike in the park on Tuesday, Jan. 28 and Wednesday, Jan. 29. She was last seen on Tuesday, and her car was found at Smokemont Campground on Saturday.
Houghton planned to hike the Bradley Fork, Chasteen Creek, Hughes Ridge and Enloe Creek trails, officials said.
Park officials said in an update on Sunday that Houghton was found de*ad just before 2 p.m. about a quarter mile off of the Enloe Creek Trail.
“Ann was an enduring and beloved member of our Smokies Community. She was a dedicated volunteer and avid hiker who shared her passion for the park with many visitors,” said Charles Sellars, Acting Superintendent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. “Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers condolences to her family and friends.”
Houghton, of Jackson County, North Carolina, had volunteered in the park for more than 20 years and was nominated for a National Park Service George and Helen Hartzog Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service in 2022.
Several agencies assisted the park with search operations, investigations, and emergency services, including Cherokee Fire and Rescue, BUSAR, Macon Volunteer Fire Department, Cowee Volunteer Fire Department, Appalachian Mountain Rescue Team and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
