Arizona Hot Springs and Goldstrike Trails Close Following Hiker Death and Rescues
Multiple trails in Arizona’s Lake Mead National Recreation Area have been closed after one hiker died and 33 others were rescued over two days, authorities announced. The closures are due to dangerously high temperatures and numerous heat-related search and rescue incidents.
The National Park Service stated that temperatures in the canyons are expected to exceed 100°F, and many hikers are not adequately prepared for such extreme conditions. With the onset of summer heat, most people are not yet acclimated, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
On the Arizona Hot Springs Trail, a hiker died in what is suspected to be a heat-related incident. Five other members of the same group also experienced heat distress and required helicopter evacuation. At the time of the announcement, rangers were responding to a large-scale rescue involving 28 hikers, including three adults and 25 children with special needs. The group reportedly attempted to reach Arizona Hot Springs without proper preparation.
The park emphasized that these emergencies place a significant strain on resources. The trails will remain closed for the next several days, with the possibility of temporary reopening depending on temperatures over the weekend. However, closures will resume if conditions become hazardous again.
A press release from the Lake Mead National Recreation Area noted that these trails will close for the summer once daily temperatures remain dangerously high. The trails have a history of heat-related rescues and, tragically, fatalities.
In a letter to parents of the children involved, school administrator Catherine Normoyle disputed some details of the incident, stating the group consisted of 10 adults and 18 students, with only three identified as having special needs. The school received citations from park officials for "creating a hazardous condition" and leading a group of over 20 people without a permit.
For the latest updates on trail closures and information on safer alternatives, visit www.nps.gov/lake.
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