Hiker dies at Zion’s Canyon Overlook Trail

The Zion-Mt Carmel Highway view from the Canyon Overlook trail. Photo: NPS // Ally O’Rullian

SPRINGDALE, Utah — A male hiker died Sunday morning on a popular trail at Zion National Park, prompting a multi-agency response and recovery operation.

Emergency crews discovered the deceased hiker on the Canyon Overlook Trail after receiving reports of a possible fall at 7:06 a.m., according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

Hurricane Valley Fire and Rescue teams arrived at the scene by 7:40 a.m., where they determined the hiker “was beyond help.” Washington County Sheriff’s deputies confirmed the death shortly after.

Park rangers and technical rescue teams assisted in the recovery operation. The incident is under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

The identity of the hiker and circumstances leading to the death have not been released.

The Canyon Overlook Trail, which offers sweeping views of Zion Canyon, is a mile-long round trip hike featuring steep dropoffs and is one of the park’s most visited trails.