3 dead following separate heat-related incidents at Grand Canyon National Park

Extreme summer heat in the Grand Canyon’s Inner Canyon has claimed the lives of three hikers in separate incidents over the past week, national park officials announced.

Grand Canyon National Park rangers and emergency personnel responded to the deadly heat-related emergencies on June 12 and June 16. In both instances, the hikers were on trails inside the Inner Canyon, where midday temperatures can soar above 109 degrees even in the shade, officials said.

The first incident occurred on June 12 when a 72-year-old man died of heat-related illness while hiking along the South Kaibab Trail.

Four days later park responders were called to the North Kaibab Trail. A 67-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman also appear to have died from heat-related illnesses during a hike, though officials noted that an investigation into their deaths is still ongoing.

Park officials said that despite a rapid response from emergency personnel and aerial support, all three individuals were found dead when rescue crews arrived at the scene. The victims were transported to the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office in Flagstaff.

Officials have not released the identities of the victims or any additional information at this time.

The National Park Service routinely warns that hiking the Grand Canyon can be a significant challenge under normal conditions, but the dangerous levels of summer heat during the hottest parts of the day significantly escalate the risk of hikers being quickly overwhelmed.

Due to the current extreme conditions, the NPS is strongly encouraging all visitors to stay off Inner Canyon trails between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Those planning a trip to the Grand Canyon this summer can find safety tips, trail conditions and preparation guides on the park’s official website.

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