A Great Smoky Mountain National Park volunteer of more than 20 years was found dead this week after failing to return from a backcountry camping trip.
When Ann Houghton didn’t show up for her volunteer shift at the Smokies visitor center, friends and coworkers who were trying to reach her discovered she had never returned from her hike, according to the Mountaineer. Houghton was reported missing on Feb. 1.
Even at 73 years old, Houghton was an avid hiker, and her camping trip was planned for Jan. 28-29. Her vehicle was found at the Smokemont Campground, where she presumably set off for her hike.
Law enforcement and search and rescue personnel focused their efforts along Bradley Fork, Chasteen Creek, Hughes Ridge and Enloe Creek trails.
Several local agencies assisted with search operations, investigations and emergency services. They also put out a notice for public help in locating her whereabouts.
In the afternoon of February 2, Houghton was found deceased roughly a quarter mile off the Enloe Creek Trail, according to a park release.
Houghton was a resident of Jackson County, North Carolina and had volunteered in the park for more than 20 years. In 2022, park officials nominated her 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, in the park release. “Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers condolences to her family and friends.”
Houghton’s cause of death is still under investigation, but no foul play is suspected, Katie Liming, a NPS spokesperson, told USA TODAY in an email on Monday.
