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20h ago

Texas Hiker Dies on Grand Canyon’s South Kaibab Trail During Record Heat

An investigation by the National Park Service alongside the Coconino County Medical Examiner is underway into the July 8 fatality during an excessive heat warning for inner-canyon trails.

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A file photo of the Grand Canyon National Park's South Kaibab trail.

Overview

  • A 67-year-old man from Alvarado, Texas, collapsed below Cedar Ridge on the South Kaibab Trail at about 11:50 a.m. July 8 and could not be revived despite CPR from bystanders and park medical staff.
  • The National Park Service and Coconino County Medical Examiner have opened a joint inquiry to determine the cause of death.
  • National Weather Service forecasts call for highs exceeding 110 °F at Phantom Ranch this week under continuing excessive heat warnings.
  • Park officials warn summer temperatures on exposed canyon trails can top 120 °F in the shade and strongly advise against hiking between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • This is the latest in a series of heat-related hiking fatalities in the Grand Canyon since mid-2023, highlighting ongoing risks and potential delays in rescue response due to high demand and limited staffing.