The Environmental Journal of Southern Appalachia
Sunday, 02 February 2025 16:47

Updated: Searchers find body of long-time park volunteer off trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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GSMNP MissingPerson 2.2.2025 copy

 

Rangers find body of 73-year-old woman missing since she embarked on hike Jan. 28

(The original story is below).

GATLINBURG, Tenn. —  Missing hiker Ann Houghton, age 73, was found deceased in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on February 2 at approximately 1:53 p.m. She was found roughly a quarter mile off Enloe Creek Trail.

Houghton was reported missing to the park on Feb. 1. She had planned to hike in the park Jan. 28-29. Her vehicle was located at the Smokemont Campground. Law enforcement and search and rescue staff began a search for her on Feb. 1 in the Smokemont area, focusing efforts along Bradley Fork, Chasteen Creek, Hughes Ridge and Enloe Creek trails. Several local 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 Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

Houghton was a resident of Jackson County, NC. She volunteered in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than 20 years. In 2022, Great Smoky Mountains National Park nominated Houghton for a National Park Service George and Helen Hartzog Awards for Outstanding Volunteer Service.

“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.”


Here is the original story:

GATLINBURG, Tenn.  Great Smoky Mountains National Park rangers and others are currently searching for overdue hiker Ann Houghton in the area of Smokemont Campground.

Law enforcement and search and rescue personnel are focusing efforts along Bradley Fork, Chasteen Creek, Hughes Ridge and Enloe Creek trails.

Houghton is described as a 73-year-old female with gray hair, approximately 105 pounds and 5 feet and 6 inches tall. Her planned itinerary was to hike in the park Jan. 28 until Jan. 29. Her vehicle was found at Smokemont Campground. Houghton was reported missing on Feb. 1. 

If you have any information or see Ann Houghton, please contact Great Smoky Mountains National Park Dispatch at 865-436-1230.

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Last modified on Monday, 03 February 2025 01:11