by Brian |
Last Updated: October 11, 2024 How Many People Have Died at Zion National Park?
Between 2007 and 2024, fatalities at Zion National Park were often attributed to falls, flash floods, and medical events. The National Park Service reports an average of 3.6 deaths each year, with some years seeing higher numbers due to specific incidents. For example, in 2015, the infamous Keyhole Canyon flash flood claimed seven lives in a single day.
Zion National Park Deaths by Year
The number of deaths per year has fluctuated. While the average might be low compared to some national parks, the risks associated with Zion’s unique activities make these fatalities particularly tragic. The flash flood in Keyhole Canyon remains one of the deadliest incidents in recent memory, with multiple search and rescue teams mobilized to retrieve the bodies over several days.
Flash floods are a recurrent hazard, especially in narrow canyons like The Narrows, where hikers can be swept away by fast-rising waters. Fall-related deaths are also common, particularly on steep trails like Angel’s Landing, which has claimed several lives over the years due to its narrow paths and exposure to sheer drops.
Reports are inconsistent but there have been approximately over 59 deaths since 2007 in Zion National Park.
Common Causes of Death in Zion National Park
The most common causes of death in Zion are falls, flash floods, and environmental exposure. These causes are primarily associated with the park’s canyoneering and hiking activities.
- Falls: Trails like Angel’s Landing and areas such as Heaps Canyon are notorious for fall-related fatalities. In Heaps Canyon, canyoneers face technical challenges that can lead to deadly accidents. A 2024 incident that made headlines saw a fatal fall involving a prominent tech CEO underscoring the risks involved in these advanced canyoneering routes
- Flash Floods: Zion’s slot canyons are particularly susceptible to flash floods, which can occur suddenly and with little warning. The Keyhole Canyon disaster is a prime example of the dangers flash floods pose, especially in narrow canyons where escape routes are limited
- Environmental Exposure: Extreme temperatures can lead to dehydration, heatstroke, or hypothermia, depending on the season. In January 2024, for instance, a hiker was found unresponsive due to what appeared to be a cardiac event brought on by the cold
Causes of Death by Percentage
According to the National Park Service data, the breakdown of causes is roughly as follows:
- Falls: 50.9%
- Flash Flood: 14.5%
- Drowning: 5.5%
- Undetermined: 5.5%
- Medical – Not during physical activity: 5.5%
- Suicide: 5.5%
- Medical – During physical activity: 5.5%
- Hyperthermia: 3.6%
- Hypothermia: 3.6%
Zion National Park Deaths by Gender and Age
Men have been disproportionately affected by fatalities in Zion National Park, largely because they tend to participate in high-risk activities such as canyoneering and technical climbing. From 2007 to 2023, approximately 72.7% of the fatalities were male, while 27.3% were female. This trend mirrors patterns seen in other national parks, where men are often overrepresented in outdoor fatalities due to their higher involvement in riskier activities.
Gender Distribution of Fatalities (2014-2023):
- Male: 72.7%
- Female: 27.3%
The age distribution of fatalities further reveals that most victims are between 20 and 50 years old. This demographic is more likely to engage in Zion’s physically demanding activities, such as strenuous hikes and challenging canyoneering routes. For example, incidents like the Keyhole Canyon tragedy involved individuals primarily in their 40s, underscoring the risks associated with middle-aged visitors who might be drawn to Zion’s adventurous offerings.
Age Distribution:
- 20-30 Years: 32.7%
- 30-40 Years: 9.1%
- 40-50 Years: 21.8%
- 50+ Years: 27.3%
These statistics highlight how Zion’s popular, challenging activities attract a wide range of visitors, particularly those in their middle years, who are more willing to embrace adventure but are also vulnerable to the physical and environmental risks of the park’s terrain.
Most Deadly Time of Year to Visit Zion
The most deadly time of year to visit Zion National Park, based on the data, appears to be late summer to early fall, particularly around August and September. This period coincides with a noticeable increase in fatalities from falls and flash floods. August is typically monsoon season in the region, which raises the risk of flash floods. Meanwhile, fall-related fatalities also peak around this time, possibly due to the popularity of hiking and canyoneering during the cooler weather of late summer and early fall.
Notable Fatal Incidents in Zion National Park
Keyhole Canyon Flash Flood, 2015
Perhaps the most well-known tragedy in Zion’s recent history occurred on September 14, 2015, when a group of seven canyoneers was caught in a flash flood in Keyhole Canyon. Despite flash flood warnings, the group entered the canyon and was quickly overtaken by the sudden surge of water. The National Park Service coordinated a massive search and rescue effort, involving multiple agencies over several days. Sadly, all seven members of the group lost their lives
Angel’s Landing Fatalities
Angel’s Landing is one of Zion’s most iconic hikes, but it is also one of its deadliest. The trail’s narrow path, which follows a steep ridgeline, has seen multiple fatalities. Falls from Angel’s Landing are typically from substantial heights, often resulting in fatal injuries. Safety measures have been implemented, such as a permit system to limit the number of hikers, but risks remain for those who take on the challenge. As of 2024, 18 deaths have been confirmed at or near Angels Landing
Heaps Canyon Incidents
Heaps Canyon is another canyoneering route that has witnessed fatalities. This canyon is known for its technical difficulty and long rappels. In 2021, a climber fell to his death at the canyon’s exit while attempting a challenging descent. Rescue operations in Heaps Canyon often require significant resources, including helicopters and specialized search and rescue teams
The Narrows and Hypothermia Risks
The Narrows is a popular hike along the Virgin River, where hikers wade through water, often waist-deep. During colder months, hypothermia is a serious risk. In 2022, a couple encountered severe hypothermia while hiking The Narrows, leading to the woman’s death despite rescue efforts. This incident underscores the dangers of environmental exposure even when temperatures are not extreme
Zion National Park Deaths in 2024
So far in 2024, Zion has already recorded several fatalities. In January, a hiker experienced a cardiac event on the West Rim Trail and could not be revived despite prompt assistance from rangers and fellow hikers
In October, another canyoneer Justin Bingham, the CEO of a Utah-based software company, tragically fell in Heaps Canyon, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with Zion’s technical routes
Safety Measures and Recommendations for Visitors
The National Park Service emphasizes the importance of preparation and awareness for anyone visiting Zion National Park. Key recommendations include:
- Checking Weather Reports: Flash floods can occur with little warning, especially during the summer monsoon season. Visitors should always check forecasts and heed flash flood warnings.
- Understanding Trail and Canyon Difficulties: Not all trails or canyons are suitable for beginners. Zion’s technical canyons require advanced skills, including ropework and an understanding of canyoneering techniques.
- Bringing Adequate Supplies: For long hikes or canyoneering trips, visitors should bring enough water, food, and emergency supplies. In cold months, proper clothing and gear are essential to prevent hypothermia.
- Staying on Marked Trails: Straying from established routes can lead to accidents, as the terrain in Zion is unforgiving and often difficult to navigate.
Zion National Park is a destination of awe-inspiring beauty, but it also demands respect for its natural hazards. With proper precautions, visitors can enjoy the park safely. By understanding the risks and planning accordingly, those who venture into Zion’s canyons and trails can help ensure that their adventures end in unforgettable memories rather than tragedy. For up-to-date safety information and tips, visitors are encouraged to visit the Zion National Park website before their trip.
SOURCES
https://www.nps.gov/zion/learn/news/newsreleases.htm
https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/mortality-data.htm