Arches and Canyonlands national parks in Utah had already recorded 23 heat-related rescue incidents this summer. Eleven occurred at Arches and 12 at Canyonlands, and park officials said most were preventable, urging visitors to use extra caution.
Areas Affected
At both parks, midsummer temperatures routinely climb well above 100°F. Intense sun, low humidity, high elevation, and limited shade create conditions in which even short hikes can quickly lead to dehydration and heat-related illness. Most of the 23 rescue incidents counted by the parks involved too little water and overly ambitious plans on shorter trails. In recent safety notices, both parks emphasized that these incidents continue to recur and urged visitors to plan ahead.
What RV Travelers Need to Know
The parks recommend planning activities for the morning or late afternoon and avoiding strenuous hikes between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Even on short trails, visitors should carry 68 to 100 ounces of water per person—about 0.5 to 0.8 gallons—and at least 135 ounces per person, about 1 gallon, when heading into the backcountry. Before setting out, check the forecast and the park’s conditions page, and adjust plans flexibly for that day’s heat. While staying at a campground, limiting midday activity and bringing a shade canopy or awning can also help. If heat-related symptoms such as dizziness or nausea develop during an outing, turning back immediately rather than pushing on is the surest way to prevent an emergency.
Photo: NPS / Neal Herbert / Original photo. Public domain. Resized and compressed for display.