The National Park Service recently identified a hiker who died in the Grand Canyon last week as a beloved 74-year-old Washington state doctor.
On May 15, the Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center was notified about an unresponsive hiker on the North Kaibab Trail, located approximately half a mile below the North Kaibab Trailhead.
A hiker named Dr. Dennis Smith from Olympia, Washington, was in the midst of a rim-to-rim trek from the South Rim to the North Rim when reports indicated that he had collapsed along the trail.
Dr. Dennis Smith pictured on a hike in 2016. (Photo courtesy of Tom Helpenstell)
The National Park Service (NPS) issued a cautionary statement to all Grand Canyon National Park visitors, especially those embarking on hikes or backpacking trips within the inner canyon, advising them to be well-prepared for intense heat. It is crucial to take necessary precautions to ensure safety and well-being during such endeavors.
Park rangers strongly advise against hiking in the inner canyon during the hottest part of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Hikers and backpackers attempting rigorous distances, such as rim to rim, through the inner canyon, are encouraged to be self-reliant to prevent emergency situations for themselves and responders.
“Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, and employee safety requirements,” according to the park service.
