02/08/2025
2/2/2025 Update:
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 of Enloe Creek Trail.
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.”
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.
2/2/2025
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 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 starting on Jan. 28 until Jan. 29. Her vehicle was found at the 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.
