Summer Safety: Avoid Hiking During Excessive Heat Warnings

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for parts of Grand Canyon National Park. The warning is in effect from 8 a.m. Thursday, June 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 7 for areas below 4,000 feet in the canyon including Phantom Ranch and Havasupai Gardens. Forecast temperatures in the shade range between 105 F/41 C and 111 F/44 C. Hotter than normal temperatures will also hit the rims, with highs of 92 F/33 C on the South Rim and 85 F/30 C on the North Rim.

The National Park Service recommends not hiking below the rim during the excessive heat warning. Hiking in extreme heat can lead to serious health risks including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hyponatremia, and death. Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed during the summer months due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, employee safety requirements, and limited helicopter flying capability during periods of extreme heat or inclement weather.

All visitors to Grand Canyon should ensure they are drinking plenty of fluids, resting in shade during the heat of the day, and dressing appropriately for the weather, which includes loose-fitting cotton clothing. Hikers should closely watch for signs of distress in traveling companions, in particular, fainting, confusion, or altered mentation as these may be early warning signs of heat stroke.

Anyone who still plans to hike into the canyon should take extra precautions to hike smart. Hikers should plan to hike before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m. and rest in the shade to avoid the worst heat of the day. The National Park Service advises that anyone hiking in heat should balance food and water intake, drink when thirsty, and get wet to stay cool.

Helpful Visitor Resources

Additional information about hiking smart in the heat is available at https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/hike-smart.htm.

For up-to-date weather forecasts please check the National Weather Service website: http://www.weather.gov/fgz/