News Release

Park rangers searching for missing man near Big Creek

Date: September 21, 2025
Contact: Katie Liming

Park rangers are searching for a 21-year-old man in the Big Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Ryan Lakes was last seen Thursday, Sept. 18 in Nashville, TN. His vehicle was found in the park on Sept. 20.

Lakes is a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes. He is 5’5” tall and weighs 130 pounds. He was last seen wearing dark color gym shorts, a dark color T-shirt, brown tennis shoes and a black backpack.

Several organizations are assisting the National Park Service with the search.

Anyone who saw Lakes or has any information about his whereabouts is asked to please contact us:

• CALL the NPS Tip Line 888-653-0009
• ONLINE go.nps.gov/SubmitATip
• EMAIL [e-mail]
• EMERGENCY dial 9-1-1