GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – An 18-year-old male died last week after experiencing heat-related symptoms while hiking in Grand Canyon National Park, according to the National Park Service.
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Teen hiker dies from heat-related symptoms at Grand Canyon
What we know:
Park officials said the Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received reports at approximately 1:40 p.m. on June 3 of a hiker suffering from heat-related distress below Havasupai Gardens on the Bright Angel Trail.
National Park Service rangers responded to the area and located the individual about 30 feet below the trail in a remote section near Garden Creek.
At Grand Canyon National Park, a mule train heads up the switchbacks on Bright Angel Trail. (Credit: Jim West/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Despite a rapid response by park personnel and a coordinated helicopter rescue operation, lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful, officials said.
According to the National Park Service, the teenager was attempting a day hike from the South Rim to the Colorado River and back via the Bright Angel Trail.
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What we don’t know:
The incident remains under investigation in coordination with the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Authorities have not released the individual’s name pending notification of next of kin. No additional information was immediately available.
National Park warns visitors about extreme heat
Big picture view:
Grand Canyon’s National Park Service routinely warns visitors about the dangers of extreme heat, particularly on inner-canyon trails where temperatures can be significantly higher.
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Park officials advise hikers to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day (between 10am and 4pm), carry adequate water and electrolytes, and to use cooling mechanisms such as spray water bottles, bandanas and towels as portable ways to cool off the body.
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