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
Almost losr my sister there in 1976. Not much has changechanged. People are people, canyons are deep. DON'T BE STUPID!
Visited Acadia National Park last week. It never ceases to amaze me the stupidity of people . It is one awesome park with breath taking granite cliffs and rocks along the coastline . Witnessed many wearing flip flops and climbing on granite rocks that were very high and jagged. No guard rails there . Wet... slippery. No common sense.
And after all this they try to find you anyway. Please don't be like the man who I heard the announcement about at one of the desert Southwest national parks: last seen wearing khaki pants, beige shirt and shoes and a brown cap. Perfect southwest camouflage. He was not found.
Have there been fatal accidents during mule rides down to Phantom Ranch?
Not just major Parks... I was a Ranger at an East coast NPS facility. I recall a bus load of people using a charcoal grill on the bus to make lunch..... They could have died from carbon monoxide poisoning easily, or in a horrible fire.
People just don't think. When on vacation or a trip, they just think differently. It's crazy.
Visitors often don't lock cars or valuables, as if Parks are some crime free and accident free zone.
Fearless = Foolish
I completely agree! The carelessness, fearlessness of people....esp with their kids! (out on rock formations) Had to walk away. Terrified me!
I was actually there and had just passed the spot that the person had fallen 2 minutes before it all went down. Paramedics were there immediately and they even sent a helicopter with a basket Down. Praying for comfort and healing of the family who has lost there loved one. I hope that these stories can raise awareness of how Bad a good trip can turn, and how people need to stay behind the rail to stay safe.