A 73-year-old woman has been found dead after she disappeared during hike.
Ann Houghton was found on Sunday (2 February) after being reported missing the day before.
She was discovered roughly a quarter of a mile off the Enloe Creek Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina.
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Her plan was to hike the park from 28 January to 29 January.
But her family started to become increasingly worried after not hearing from her for a while.
After Ann was reported missing, law enforcement and search and rescue staff began a search for her.
Ann, a resident of Jackson County, North Carolina, had also volunteered in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than 20 years.
In 2022, she was awarded a certificate for outstanding volunteer service, as reported by Need To Know.
On Sunday morning, her vehicle was located at the campground.
Eventually she was found on the trial by the search and rescue team at around 1:53pm.
“Ann was an enduring and beloved member of our Smokies Community,” said Charles Sellars, Acting Superintendent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
“She was a dedicated volunteer and avid hiker who shared her passion for the park with many visitors.
“Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers condolences to her family and friends.”
According to local news, Ann Houghton’s cause of death is still under investigation, but no foul play is suspected.
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