Grand Canyon visitor dies while trying to hike to Colorado River and back in 1 day – St George News

U.S. NEWS


The Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park is a challenging hike that requires proper training and supplies, according to the National Park Service. An Indiana woman died May 14, 2023, while attempting to hike this popular trail from the South Rim to the Colorado River and back in a single day, which is not recommended by park rangers, undated file photo | Photo courtesy of National Park Service, St. George News

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — A woman from Indiana reportedly attempting to hike from the South Rim to the Colorado River and back in a single day died in Grand Canyon National Park May 14.

According to a news release from the National Park Service, the Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report at approximately 9 p.m. of an unresponsive hiker on the Bright Angel Trail above the Three-Mile Resthouse.

Park service emergency personnel responded down trail to the area the hiker was reported to be. All attempts to resuscitate the individual were unsuccessful. The victim has been identified as a 36-year-old female from Westfield, Indiana.

An investigation into the incident is being conducted by the NPS in coordination with the Coconino County Medical Examiner.

The news release also contained a reminder from park rangers at Grand Canyon National Park who “strongly urge visitors, especially inner canyon hikers and backpackers, to be prepared for excessively hot days in the coming weeks.”

The Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park traverses varied terrain | Photo courtesy of National Park Service, St. George News

In the summer months, temperatures on exposed parts of the trail can reach over 120°F in the shade. Park rangers do not advise hiking in the inner canyon between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. as most heat-related illnesses are from hikers on trail between these hours, the news release said. The NPS does not recommend hiking from the rim to the river and back in one day.

Hiking in extreme heat can lead to serious health risks including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hyponatremia (a life-threatening electrolyte imbalance from drinking too much water and not consuming enough salt) and death.

Be aware that NPS efforts to assist hikers may be delayed during the summer months due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, employee safety requirements and limited helicopter flying capability during periods of extreme heat or inclement weather.

Park staff remind visitors there are ways to safely hike below the rim, for those who are prepared, well-acclimated to the climate and elevation, have the appropriate gear, and who have prior experience hiking in steep, desert terrain. Important tips for a successful hike include the following:

  • Balance food, electrolyte and water intake.
  • Drink when thirsty.
  • Get wet to stay cool.
  • Stop hiking if you start to feel ill.

Visitors should evaluate their level of experience and plan accordingly. For more information on hiking in the summer months in Grand Canyon, click on this hiking tips link.





source

Rate article
Add a comment