Hiker Reported Missing More Than 2 Months After Leaving for AT Trip

A hiker who apparently never returned from a backpacking trip in Shenandoah National Park over two months ago has been reported missing, according to the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch. James Alan Cattley, 66, filed a backcountry permit on September 22 for seven nights on the Appalachian Trail with an anticipated exit of October 6. He never returned from the trip and was reported missing on December 12.

The missing hiker’s car was found on December 15 at Turk Gap parking area at mile 94.1 on Skyline Drive. Cattley is described as a white male, 66 years old, 5’7″, 125 pounds, with fair skin, blue eyes, long grey hair, and a beard. He wears shoes with an orthopedic lift.

If you have information or you have been in the area of Turk Gap since September 22, please call or text the ISB Tip Line at 1-888-653-0009, email [email protected], or submit a tip online at go.nps.gov/SubmitATip. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.

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