Teen dies after heat-related illness during Grand Canyon hike

A hiker died last week, after suffering heat-related symptoms while attempting a strenuous hike through the Grand Canyon, according to the National Park Service.

Park officials said rangers received reports at about 1:40 PM local time on Wednesday of “an 18-year-old male experiencing heat-related symptoms” along the Bright Angel Trail, one of the canyon’s most popular hiking routes.

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The teenager had reportedly travelled beyond Havasupai Gardens, a rest stop and campground deep within the canyon.

Rangers launched a helicopter rescue mission and later found him about 30 feet below the trail in a remote area.

The National Park Service said emergency crews attempted life-saving measures but were unable to save him.

Officials have not released the teenager’s identity because next-of-kin notifications are still pending.

An investigation into the death is being carried out by the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The teen had planned to complete a round-trip hike from the South Rim to the Colorado River in a single day.

However, the park service warns against attempting the route in one trip due to extreme temperatures, long distances and steep elevation changes.

“Destinations below Havasupai Gardens are not recommended day hikes due to the long distance, extreme temperature changes, and an approximately 5,000' (1,500 m) elevation change each way,” the National Park Service states on its website.