Every year, scores of unprepared hikers, lured by initially easy downhill hiking, experience severe illness, injury, or death from hiking in the canyon.

Read the Hiking Tips page and check the Backcountry Updates and Closures page for current information on trail conditions and situations affecting the backcountry.

Be aware that efforts to assist you may be delayed during the winter months due to limited staff, employee safety requirements, and limited helicopter flying capability during inclement weather.

Do not rely on physical strength alone, hiking smart will take you much farther. Use the information below to hike smart.

1. Water – plain and some with electrolyte replacement.
2. Food – especially salty foods. Eat twice as much as normal.
3. First Aid Kit – bandaids, ace wrap, antiseptic, moleskin, etc.
4. Map – while many trails are well-marked, maps are helpful tools.
5. Pack – to carry the essentials.
6. Flashlight/Spare Batteries – allows you to hike out at night.
7. Appropriate Footwear - waterproof boots, crampons for icy trails, gaiters to keep snow and mud out of your boots.
8. Hiking Poles – to help with footing on icy trails.
9. Whistle and/or Signal Mirror – for emergency use.
10. Waterproof/Warm Clothing – parka, hat, gloves for the snow and rain, plus an extra set of dry clothing – in case you get wet.

WATCH OUT FOR THIS HEALTH HAZARD!

HYPOTHERMIA - A life-threatening emergency where the body cannot keep itself warm, due to exhaustion and exposure to cold, wet, windy weather.

Symptoms: uncontrolled shivering, poor muscle control, careless attitude, confusion, exhaustion (even after rest). Look for signs of the "umbles" - stumbling, mumbling, fumbling, grumbling.

Treatment: remove wet clothing and put on dry clothing, drink warm sugary liquids, warm victim by body contact with another person, protect from wind, rain, and cold. If re-warming is unsuccessful - seek help.

Avoid hypothermia by checking at Canyon View Information Plaza or the Backcountry Information Center for the latest weather and trail conditions, taking layered clothing for protection against cold and wet weather, eating frequently, replacing fluids and electrolytes by drinking before feeling thirsty, and avoiding exposure to wet weather.