Texas Man Dies on Grand Canyon Trail Amid Extreme Heat

Warning: This article contains mentions of death that some readers may find distressing.

As temperatures soar, another life is lost to the extreme heat.

A Texas man, Scott Sims, 69, from Austin, collapsed and died on a trail in Grand Canyon National Park, as bystanders attempted CPR to no avail. This tragedy underscores the very real dangers of hiking in such extreme conditions.

URL for reference: Hiker fatality along River Trail - June 2024

Deadly Trail:

The River Trail, with sections exceeding 120°F in summer, claims another life. Park officials urge hikers to avoid inner canyon trails between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the deadliest time of day. Even rescue attempts are hindered during these scorching months.

Grand Canyon Deaths:

With over 900 deaths since the 19th century, the Grand Canyon is the third deadliest US National Park. In the past two years alone, 21 guests have lost their lives, and the average yearly death toll is 12. Crashes, falls, and environmental factors like dehydration contribute to this grim statistic.

References:

• Grand Canyon National Park warns of heat dangers after hiker dies
• Grand Canyon Deaths: What Are the Statistics?