Hiker influencer found dead in Arizona desert after going missing on trail

An influencer popular for her hiking journeys and spiritual insights was found deceased near an Arizona trailhead after being reported missing.

Hannah Moody, 31, was found in a Scottsdale preserve around noon on Thursday, located approximately 600 yards from the main trail. She had been missing since the day prior, as stated by the Scottsdale Police Department in a press release.

Moody, a seasoned hiker known for sharing positive life messages, was reported missing by worried friends at approximately 7:50 p.m. on Wednesday after they were unable to contact her, according to police.

Hannah Moody hiking pictures

Hannah Moody, 31, was discovered around 12:05 p.m. near the Gateway Trailhead in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, about 600 yards off-trail, the Scottsdale Police Department said (Instagram/ itshanrose)

Peace and love. Look at this view. So pretty. It’s so pretty.”

Moody posted on her Instagram Thursday that she was headed out on the hike, writing that she had about “five gallons of water” with her, Fox 10 Phoenix reported.

Saguaros stand in front of Four Peaks looming

Saguaros stand in front of Four Peaks looming in the background as seen from the Granite Mountain Loop Trail in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale. Hannah Moody, known for sharing her hiking adventures and spiritual reflections, was found dead near a trailhead in Scottsdale after being reported missing. (David Wallace/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK)

Friends describe Moody as someone with a big heart who felt most at home hiking the desert trails.

“She loves the outdoors. If you could put her somewhere where she would be happiest, it would be outside in nature,” her friend, Lauryn, told the outlet.

They also said she was an experienced hiker who was always prepared.

“She does hikes literally weekly like this, so she knows what to do,” Jessica, another one of her friends, said.

Her brother, Joel Moody wrote on Facebook that his sister was a “fierce competitor” who was “driven, putting her heart and mind to a goal and pursuing it relentlessly.”

“Hannah was also a nomad, a free spirit, searching for a place to belong and to call home after leaving our parents’ house,” he said. “She was a wanderer, journeying with companions, settling for a time, then moving on.”

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