SALT LAKE CITY — Zion National Park officials say a recent Nokomis high school graduate was found dead at the bottom of a popular trail bordered by steep drops was a concession employee at the park in southern Utah.

Officials on Friday identified the person found dead Thursday morning as 19-year-old Savannah McTague and said she was a resident from Maine who worked for Xanterra at Zion Lodge.

Mary Nadeau, principal of Nokomis Regional High School, said in a statement, “We are all deeply saddened to hear of Savannah’s passing. She was a bright, kind, young woman who was passionate about life. She was well known and highly regarded by all who knew her. She radiated positivity and had the ability to lift those around her, truly a beautiful soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.”

A park news release said McTague’s body was found below the Angel’s Landing trail after she was reported missing late Wednesday afternoon.

The release said McTague’s injuries “were consistent with a high elevation fall.”

The trail reopened Tuesday after being closed for several days because of a rock fall. Park officials warned hikers to be careful on the trail due to a winter storm moving into the area.

 

Morning Sentinel contributed to this report.

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