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4h ago

Three Hikers Die as Extreme Heat Returns to Grand Canyon National Park

A National Weather Service Extreme Heat Watch forecasting inner‑canyon temperatures near or above 110°F has led park officials to tell visitors to avoid inner‑canyon trails during peak midday hours.

The Kaibab Trail, running right to left at centre, at Grand Canyon National Park on Jan. 20, 2001.

Overview

  • Grand Canyon rangers say two separate heat‑related incidents on June 12 and June 16 led to three deaths despite rapid and aerial emergency response.
  • The victims were found on inner‑canyon routes: a 72‑year‑old man on the South Kaibab Trail and a 67‑year‑old man and 68‑year‑old woman on the North Kaibab Trail.
  • The National Weather Service issued an Extreme Heat Watch for Monday and Tuesday, warning that parts of the inner canyon could reach or exceed 110°F.
  • Park officials are urging visitors to stay off inner‑canyon trails from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., carry ample water, hike in cooler hours, and know personal limits because rescues can be slow and terrain is harsh.
  • Temperatures on inner trails can be tens of degrees hotter than the rim, a difference that can mislead visitors, and the three bodies have been sent to the Coconino County Medical Examiner as investigations continue.