Grand Canyon National Park staff are asking visitors to be careful during theri visit. On Tuesday, a visitor fell 500 feet to their death from Mather point after climbing over a railing there/NPS file photo
It's summer, you're in a national park, what's to worry about? Well, quite a lot, actually, if you're not careful. At Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, staff are hoping visitors have a great time, but asking that they take a few precautions to ensure they have a wonderful vacation. They do that in the wake of a visitor who fell 500 feet to their death on Tuesday.
* Stay on designated trails and walkways and always keep a safe distance from the edge of the rim. In areas where there is a railing or fence, do not climb over the barrier.
* Keep an eye on all of the people in your group, especially small children. Make sure that your travel companions have both feet firmly planted on pavement or developed trails at all times.
* Know where the edge is. Watch foot placement and look for trip hazards. Do not run, jump, or perform physical stunts when near the rim.
* Know the altitude, the South Rim sits at 7,000 feet and the North Rim sits at just over 8,000 feet. Individuals coming from sea level or with health conditions should take time to acclimate to the elevation. Drink plenty of fluids, rest frequently, and do not overexert yourself.
* Check the weather! Monsoon season is quickly approaching and afternoon lightning and heavy rain become daily occurrences. Remember, when it roars go indoors.
* Stay a safe distance away from wild animals. A good rule is two bus lengths or if you can cover an animal with your thumb. Remember, do not feed or water wildlife.
Each year, Grand Canyon visitors suffer from slips, trips, and falls that can result in serious injury or even death. On Tuesday, rangers responded to reports of a visitor who had climbed over a railing at Mather Point, lost footing, and fell approximately 500 feet. The fall was fatal. At this time, an investigation is under way and no further information is available.
Grand Canyon National Park expects increased visitation through the weekend. Plan to arrive early and pack your patience. Parking lots can fill as early as 10 a.m. Prior to arriving at the park you can purchase a 7-day pass on your mobile device by visiting www.yourpassnow.com and selecting Grand Canyon National Park. Visitors are also encouraged to use the free shuttle bus system including the option to park in the gateway town of Tusayan and ride into the South Rim Village.
Comments
I visited the park back in November. The views and vistas were breathtaking. But too many people had gone over the barriers and some had climbed on the rock formations, one young man had flip flops on. Great rock climbing footgear. Please remember to bring a photo I.D. if you're going to do reckless stunts, to make identifying the body you leave behind more probable, perhaps take along a Next Of Kin card too.
Sorry, but that was the only downside of our trip there. I had to keep looking away from the spectacular view because of the fearless people.
We were there last week and watched in amazement as some girl went beyond the guardrails near Mather Point with her boyfriend and proceeded to do handstands and other gymnastics for what appeared to be an amateur model photo shoot. She didn't fall and probably got some great shots, but what a couple of idiots.
As an avid hiker in the Grand Canyon I see stupidity too often to count. Hiking down to mile and half or three mile house in flip flops and little to no water, selfies on the edge and even some moron running down the Bright Angel trail filming himself with a selfie stick and absolutely no consideration for the other people on the trail. While it is sad that people die it isn't surprising.
Really dangerous area. Off the cliff you go. Its all luck people take there kids and have them running around dangerous ledges. Unbelievable. Also my girl stood next tosome girl near the edge.. I ask her not to ever do that becuz if the person turns around and bumps to u shes gone cuz she was bericading her from behind. Anything can go WRONG. Temptation is scary with this subject d's
Well said.
Can never be cautious enuff.
I'm still alive after hiking close to 2,000 miles in the GC. Never got even one scratch.
I work at the park and see this stuff everyday. Most the time when an accident happens it isnt in the news or made to the public. I think if it was put out there more it would make a difference. A lot of visitors use the park website for info and maybe if they saw stories like this they would MAYBE think about it. Most just don't think it will happen to them.
I lead guided tours to the canyon three days a week and see stupid stuff every visit. I always tell my passengers "If you hear screaming, look away from the edge!"
Good idea. I can't believe people wear flip flops there I saw tons of people. You Can't Fix stupid