The search for missing hiker Hannah Moody came to a tragic end on May 22, 2025, when authorities discovered her body near the Arizona trailhead where she was last seen. Moody, whose disappearance prompted an outpouring of concern from friends, family, and the local hiking community, had last made contact on the evening of May 21 before all communication abruptly ceased.
According to officials, friends of Moody grew concerned when she failed to respond to messages and calls on the evening of May 21. At approximately 7:50 p.m., they alerted authorities, prompting a search and rescue operation. The effort quickly escalated due to the treacherous terrain and the fast-approaching nightfall in the mountainous region.
Authorities located her body at around 12:05 p.m. on May 22, not far from the trailhead where she had begun her hike. The discovery site, while accessible, is known for its rugged landscape and remote stretches, often making communication difficult and navigation challenging for solo hikers.
The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, which is leading the investigation, has reported that there were no immediate signs of foul play or visible trauma on Moody’s body. However, investigators are continuing to process the scene and conduct interviews to determine what might have happened during the hours between her last known contact and the discovery of her remains.
“Hannah was a passionate hiker and loved the outdoors,” a close friend shared. “She was always careful, always let people know where she was going. That’s why this is so hard to believe.”
While the official cause of death has not yet been released, authorities are awaiting the results of an autopsy by the county medical examiner to shed more light on the circumstances. Environmental factors such as extreme heat, dehydration, or a possible medical emergency have not been ruled out.
Moody’s disappearance and the subsequent discovery of her body have sparked conversations within the outdoor community about the safety of solo hiking, particularly in remote and arid regions like the Arizona backcountry. Local rangers have once again urged all hikers to follow safety guidelines, including informing someone of their route, carrying GPS devices or personal locators, and avoiding isolated paths when alone.
The Moody family, meanwhile, is asking for privacy as they grieve the sudden loss of their daughter. In a short statement, they expressed gratitude to the volunteers, search teams, and friends who supported the search efforts.
“Hannah’s spirit was full of adventure and love,” the statement read. “We are heartbroken but comforted by the love and strength of our community.”
As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on piecing together Hannah Moody’s final hours to provide answers to a family and community now grappling with the loss of a vibrant young woman whose life was cut short under mysterious and heartbreaking circumstances.