Grand Canyon hiker dies from heat-related illness

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — An 18-year-old hiker died June 3 after suffering a heat-related illness while hiking on the Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park.

The Tapeats Narrows in Grand Canyon National Park, about one mile north of Havasupai Gardens. Park officials say an 18-year old hiker died June 3 after suffering a heat-related illness while attempting a South Rim-to-Colorado River-and-back day hike. Photo courtesy of the National Park Service.

According to the National Park Service, dispatchers received reports at approximately 1:40 p.m. of a hiker experiencing heat-related symptoms below Havasupai Gardens. Rangers located the individual about 30 feet below the trail in a remote area near Garden Creek. Lifesaving efforts and a helicopter rescue operation were unsuccessful.

Park officials said the hiker was attempting to travel from the South Rim to the Colorado River and back in a single day. The National Park Service does not recommend that hike as a day trip because of the distance, elevation change and extreme summer temperatures.

Grand Canyon officials continue to warn visitors about the dangers of summer hiking. Temperatures at the bottom of the canyon can be significantly hotter than those at the rim, and park staff advise hikers to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

The National Park Service encourages hikers to carry adequate water, replace electrolytes, eat regularly and rest in shaded areas when possible. Visitors planning strenuous canyon hikes are encouraged to consult with park rangers before beginning their trip.

The victim’s name has not been released. The incident remains under investigation by the National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office.