Missing hiker found in Zion National Park after 12-day search

SPRINGDALE, Utah — A hiker who went missing in Zion National Park nearly two weeks ago has been found alive, her family announced Sunday. Holly Courtier, 38, was last seen entering the park Oct. 6 — when she went on a solo trip through the park. 

Her family told CNN they were relieved she was found safe.

“We would like thank the rangers and search teams who relentlessly looked for her day and night and never gave up hope,” the family said in a statement. “We are also so grateful to the countless volunteers who were generous with their time, resources and support.”

Courtier was last seen getting off a bus at the Grotto area stop that leads to several hiking trails. After not hearing from her mother, Kailey Chambers turned to other hikers to help search for her. 

“It’s getting critical — we just don’t know how much food she brought, how much it will last,” Chambers said Saturday, before her mother was found.

However, Chambers said her mother was a fit, experienced hiker — who she believed could survive for more than a week outdoors if she needed to. She was concerned, though, about the potential lack of food and water.