Hiker dies on trail at Big Bend National Park

BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK, Texas – A hiker died on a trail inside Big Bend National Park this week, park officials said.

Big Bend officials said the park’s communication center received a call around 4:30 p.m. on Monday for emergency assistance on the Hot Springs Trail.

Rangers found a 53-year-old hiker in medical distress and began performing CPR. They also used an automated external defibrillator but were not able to revive the woman.

Officials with the West Texas park said the woman was visiting the area with her family for the first time.

“Big Bend National Park staff and partners are saddened by this loss,” said Deputy Superintendent David Elkowitz in a press release. “Our entire park family extends sincere condolences to the hiker’s family and friends.”

Big Bend officials warned that park temperatures are now starting to exceed 100 degrees and reminded visitors to be aware of the dangers and to prepare for hikes by carrying enough water to drink one gallon per day. They also recommend that hikers plan their activities in the morning and get off the desert trails by noon.

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