At a Glance
- Nicole Bennett, 19, was reported missing on January 13 after her car was spotted at the Red Cliffs Recreation Area trailhead
- Her body was discovered the next morning by a family member during search efforts
- Preliminary findings indicate she accidentally fell while hiking the steep Red Reef Trail
- Why it matters: The tragedy highlights the dangers of hiking in treacherous terrain and the importance of safety precautions
A 19-year-old woman who vanished during a hike in Utah was found dead the following morning, with authorities believing she fell while navigating a notoriously difficult section of trail.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Nicole Bennett’s death in a January 14 release, detailing the timeline that began with a late-night missing person report and ended with a family member’s heartbreaking discovery.
The Disappearance
Bennett was reported missing around 11:55 p.m. on January 13, according to the sheriff’s office. Deputies learned her vehicle had been located at the Red Cliffs Recreation Area trailhead in Washington County, prompting an immediate search operation.
The search resumed just after 7 a.m. on January 14 following a brief pause due to local conditions. Within minutes, the dispatch center received word that Bennett’s body had been discovered.
Washington County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Jacob Paul told ABC affiliate KTVX that a family member made the discovery during the search efforts.
The Investigation
While the investigation continues, preliminary findings point to an accidental fall while Bennett was hiking the Red Reef Trail. The area is known for its challenging terrain that becomes increasingly difficult beyond the initial moderate section.
“Unfortunately, this area is treacherous, and it can be dangerous at times,” Paul explained to KTVX.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management describes the Red Reef Trail as a 5.7-mile one-way path. The first 0.6 miles are rated moderate, but the difficulty increases significantly beyond that point.
Trail Safety Details
- Trail length: 5.7 miles one way
- Initial difficulty: Moderate for first 0.6 miles
- Beyond 0.6 miles: Terrain becomes strenuous
- Known hazards: Steep sections with treacherous footing
A Life Cut Short
Bennett was preparing for a mission to Italy as part of her service with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, according to KTVX. The 19-year-old’s death has left her family and community grieving an unimaginable loss.
“The Washington County Sheriff’s Office expresses our condolences to the family of Nicole Bennett for their loss,” authorities said in their statement.
The tragedy has deeply affected those involved in the search and recovery efforts.
“It’s one of the harder situations that we have to deal with, and we wish that we didn’t have to deal with situations like that,” Paul told CBS affiliate KUTV. “I can’t imagine what the family’s going through right now.”
Ongoing Investigation
Deputies and investigators remain at the scene as the case continues. The sheriff’s office has asked the public to avoid the area while they complete their work.
The investigation aims to determine the exact circumstances that led to Bennett’s fall, though authorities have indicated they believe it was accidental based on the evidence found at the scene.
Key Takeaways
- Timeline: Reported missing January 13 at 11:55 p.m., body found January 14 around 7 a.m.
- Location: Red Cliffs Recreation Area trailhead, Red Reef Trail
- Cause: Preliminary findings indicate accidental fall on steep terrain
- Safety reminder: Even moderate trails can become dangerous beyond initial sections
The death serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers present in wilderness areas, even for young, healthy individuals. Hikers are advised to research trail conditions, inform others of their plans, and carry appropriate safety equipment when exploring natural areas.
