(KRON) -- A woman who was found dead along a Big Sur hiking trail near hot springs is being remembered as free-spirited and adventurous. Joanna Ruth Shields, 37, of Carlsbad, died near Sykes Hot Springs in the Ventana Wilderness area of Los Padres National Forest on April 9, sheriff's officials said . "There was something so free about her … like she belonged to the wind and the sunshine. Often gliding by on her skateboard, with a smile that brightened her gorgeous blue eyes, Joanna was a bright and adventurous spirit," writes a verified GoFundMe page created by her loved ones. Shields' Instagram page is filled with photographs featuring her passion for skateboarding. Joanna Ruth Shields (Photo courtesy GoFundMe) When she was found deceased by a group of hikers, Shields reportedly had markings around her neck and a gash on her head. Monterey County Sheriff’s Office deputies said they are investigating the incident as a "suspicious death." Sheriff's officials wrote, "On April 9th, 2026, California State Parks and Monterey County Sheriff’s deputies were informed of a body seen in the area of Sykes Hot Springs. Assistance was requested from the California Highway Patrol’s H70 Air Unit to transport deputies to the location." Deputies closed off the hiking trail while they investigated. The GoFundMe page described the incident as a tragic "backpacking accident" that has left her family and friends "heartbroken." The hot springs are accessed from Big Sur Station by hiking 20 miles along Pine Ridge Trail with 5,000 feet of elevation and river crossings, according to AllTrails. Army soldier identified as Big Sur victim swept into ocean "Joanna moved through this world with brightness and spontaneity -- in love with nature, her family, her friends, and her constant journey of self development," loved ones wrote. Joanna Ruth Shields (Photo courtesy GoFundMe) The GoFundMe page is raising donations to help the woman's family cover funeral expenses. Sheriff's officials have not announced any arrests in connection to the case. Officials said Shields' cause of death is pending the results of toxicology tests. A hiking trail winds along the rugged coastline of Big Sur. (KRON4 Photo) Anyone with information that may be related to the investigation is asked to contact Detective Geng at 831-755-3700. ...read more read less