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Bad Day in the Grand Canyon

One hiker falls to his death, two more struck by lightning

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.

Friday was a bit of a rough day for SAR crews in the Grand Canyon: A 42-year-old man from California fell 500 feet to his death while jumping from one outcropping to another on the South Rim Trail. As if that wasn’t enough, two Korean women were struck by lightning while standing near the rim just east of the visitor center. They were luckier: Both were released from the hospital after receiving treatment.

Rangers are advising visitors to the Grand Canyon to stay away from exposed areas since thunderstorms are expected through Thursday.

Speaking of backcountry survival, our October Survival Issue has taken over our homepage. Learn how you can avoid becoming a backcountry statistic—click away to learn how to avoid deadly streams, desert heatstroke, getting lost, and more. Plus: The country’s most dangerous hikes.

—Ted Alvarez

image credit: deliriant

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