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.
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Comments
You called them "fearless" people...I call them IGNORANT. Especially the ones of European or Asian descent. I was at the park in May and witnessed this at every overlook point.
I agree with you Cindy. My hubby and I were at the south rim a couple of years ago in feb and one of the rangers shared with us about this kind of thing happening frequently. I just don't get it either because you would think people had more sense than that to be protective of their life or other lives as well. people need to realize they are not exempt from problems in this world no matter who you are.
There used to be images of those who had fallen, set up in a display at Babbitts. Maybe that kind of reality is needed in a display at Mather.
I was actually there that day. We had passed that spot and about 2 minutes later is when things went down. Paramedics rushed there immediately, and there even was a helicopter there that put a basket down. I remember seeing the flag half way down after all this went down and I was trying to be positive. I wasn't really sure if that was the reason why but it scared me, I was just hoping that he was at leas in critical condition and was wishing the best for him. I just want to pray for comfort and healing of the family who lost there loved one is this tragic accident. I hope that these stories raise awareness of how a good family trip could turn into something bad, and that there is railing for a reason so that this is exact thing doesn't happen. Do the right thing, your life isn't worth a picture.
very well said
There was an accident about 10 yrs ago where mule lost its footing and rolled over rider. But otherwise it's a very safe (if uncomfortable!) form of transportation.
I was there. I warned my people about the dangers. They saw him toss his backpack to his intended landing spot, but did not realise that he was going to and try to jump the gap. When my people looked back, he was gone.
Very sad. That's why I warn my people every time that I'm at Mather Point, because "stupidity can be contagious."
My condolences to his mom and sister.
As a tour guide for many years taking groups to most of the National Parks. I would remind my guests to please stay on the sidewalks, paved trails and be especially alert for wild animals. I have decided that people lose their comon sense when they go on vacation, and that they do things they would never do back at home. I witnessed a man put his young son ( 5 or 6 years old ) on the back of a bison in Yellowstone, our entire bus was screaming at the man, come back... he just wanted that photo, it didn't end up well for the father or the son, both were injured and blamed the NP, for not giving them a caged area for photos with these animals, like they were like pets. And seeing a young Japanese couple in wedding clothes go over the railing and on some rocks that were a overhang for "good pictures ".... the husband fell and had to get a recuse team to bring him back up at the Grand Canyon....i could go on... but people just don't think.