Three hikers died in separate apparent heat-related incidents in the Inner Canyon of Grand Canyon National Park over a four-day period, according to the National Park Service.
A 72-year-old man died June 12 after experiencing symptoms of a heat-related illness on the South Kaibab Trail. Four days later, a 67-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman also appeared to have died from heat-related illnesses on the North Kaibab Trail, officials said.
The incidents took place on trails within the Inner Canyon, where temperatures can exceed 109 degrees in the shade during midday hours, according to the National Park Service.
Park officials said emergency crews, including aerial support, responded to both incidents. However, all three hikers were dead when rescuers arrived. The hikers were transported to the Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office.
The National Park Service issued a warning that summer temperatures in the Inner Canyon can quickly overwhelm hikers. Officials urged visitors to avoid using Inner Canyon trails between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
