Beloved park volunteer found dead after hike in Great Smoky Mountains
GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WATE) — A hiker, who had been reported as missing, was found dead in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Sunday.
Ann Houghton, 73, was reported missing on Saturday, Feb. 1, prompting a search effort that involved at least six area fire and rescue organizations. Her body was found the next day at 1:53 p.m.
The remains were found a quarter of a mile from Enloe Creek Trail, one of the trails where Houghton had planned to hike.
A resident of Jackson County, North Carolina, Houghton volunteered in the park for more than 20 years, a spokesperson said. In 2022, she was nominated for a National Park Service George and Helen Hartzog Award 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.”
Houghton had planned to hike from Tuesday, January 28 to Wednesday, January 29.
As of Monday evening, the cause of death was still unknown.
