Tragic news out of Grand Canyon National Park where a 74-year-old hiker passed away approximately half a mile below the North Kaibab Trailhead on May 15.
The Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of an unresponsive hiker on the North Kaibab Trail at approximately 4:45pm. Bystanders and National Park Service personnel attempted to resuscitate the individual but he was pronounced dead at scene.
The hiker was identified as 74-year-old Dennis Smith of Olympia, Washington. The avid and experienced hiker was attempting a Rim-to-Rim hike from the South Rim to the North Rim. His cause of death is currently under investigation by the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The National Park Service is urging all visitors to Grand Canyon National Park to prepare for extreme hike in the next several days. By the end of this week temperatures are expected to reach 100°F. Hikers and backpackers in the inner canyon are encouraged to take proper precautions to handle the heat.
“In light of the forecasted heat, park rangers strongly advise against hiking in the inner canyon during the hottest part of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Hikers and backpackers attempting rigorous distances, such as rim to rim, through the inner canyon are encouraged to be self-reliant to prevent emergency situations for themselves and responders. Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, and employee safety requirements.” – Grand Canyon National Park
Our condolences are with the friends and family of the deceased at this time.