Jennifer Coleman, Missing Virginia Woman, Found Dead in Glacier National Park

An investigation has been launched after a hiker was found dead in a steep and rocky area of Glacier National Park, according to officials.

Jennifer Coleman, 34, of Richmond, Virginia, went missing while hiking in Montana's Glacier National Park last week, sparking a widespread search.

Officials said they believe Coleman had been hiking around the Logan Pass in the park on either Monday or Tuesday before she was reported missing on Wednesday.

A search was launched once Coleman did not return to collect her dogs from a boarding facility and did not reply to text messages.

According to WTVR, some 50 people had joined the search to find Coleman as of Sunday before officials announced they had found her body.

A statement on the Glacier National Park Facebook page on Sunday confirmed Coleman had been found dead near the Continental Divide.

It added: "Jennifer Coleman, who was reported missing Wednesday, September 1, was found deceased on a steep and rocky area near the Continental Divide.

"Cause of death is currently under investigation."

A spokesperson for the National Park Service told WTVR on Sunday: "Rescuers will extract Coleman's body when weather conditions permit. Air operations were halted today...due to high winds in the incident area."

It later added: "Glacier National Park would like to thank the public's response to the tip line. Although the end result is not the one searchers hoped for, public tips were key to a faster resolution of the search."

The AWARE Foundation of Virginia, a missing persons organization, said Coleman was the daughter of one of its contributors.

In a Facebook update shared on Sunday, the AWARE Foundation said: "It is with heavy heart that we have to share this news. Jennifer Coleman, daughter of one of our own AWARE family, has been located deceased.

"Please respect the family as they process their grief and loss. Please also respect us with the foundation as we comfort the Colemans. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Hal and Sharon during this difficult time. We thank all of you for sharing Jenn's information, those who contacted us with information and for all the prayers."

The statement concluded: "Many thanks to Glacier National Park and law enforcement for their search efforts to find Jenn."

Newsweek has contacted Glacier National Park for comment.

Glacier National Park is famous for its views and diverse wildlife and attracts hikers who use the 700 miles of trails.