National park warns visitors not to hike between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Grand Canyon National Park officials are warning visitors of the dangerous weather conditions that happen on a near daily basis during peak travel season.
Tourists flock to Mather Point at Grand Canyon National Park, Oct. 1, 2025, in Grand Canyon, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S., drawing millions of visitors from around the world every year. But exploring the park during the summer travel season comes with a hidden weather danger.
Park officials are urging hikers to use extra caution after an 18-year-old died due to heat-related illness while hiking in the canyon last week.
"Due to a recent influx of heat-related incidents and forecast extreme temperatures, visitors are strongly advised to avoid strenuous hiking between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when Inner Canyon temperatures can soar to 109 F (43 C) in the shade," the National Park Service said.
Temperatures in the canyon can be 20 degrees higher than at the rim, meaning what might start off as a comfortable hike could quickly become dangerously hot as hikers venture deep into the canyon.
"While emergency responders are highly skilled, the canyon is expansive and accessing visitors in need of care can take time. Heat-related illnesses can develop suddenly, and a visitor’s condition may deteriorate rapidly," the NPS said.
Anyone planning a hike during the daytime heat should pack plenty of water, take breaks in the shade and stay alert for the signs of heat-related illness. Hiking early in the day not only beats the heat, but also the crowds that often gather at national parks during peak travel season.
Visitors planning trips other popular national parks in the region, such as Zion and Arches, should also use caution in the summer heat, which can last into September.
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