Observational Study of Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim Day Hikers: Determining Behavior Patterns to Aid in Preventive Search and Rescue Efforts

Abstract

Grand Canyon National Park has seen an increase in visitors traversing the canyon from rim to rim (R2R) in a single day. R2R hikers travel over 33.8 km (21 mi) over 3300 m (11,000 ft) of elevation change and endure large temperature changes. Grand Canyon emergency medical service providers provide emergency medical services to over 1100 visitors annually. Direct guidance by Preventive Search and Rescue rangers has improved safety. The objective of this study was to examine visitors attempting an R2R traverse and to enhance PSAR rangers' anticipatory guidance. We conducted an observational study of R2R hikers in the spring and fall of 2015. Hikers consented to study inclusion and were interviewed at the starting trailhead, canyon bottom, and exit trailhead. We performed a survey and collected biometric data. We enrolled 617 visitors with a median age of 43 y (interquartile range [IQR] 33-53); 65% were male and 46% had hiked the R2R a median number of 3 times previously (IQR 2-7). Hydration strategies included water bottle only (20%), hydration bladder only (31%), and both water bottle and hydration bladder (48%). R2R crossers had an average start time of 0530 (SD 1.3 h) and median crossing time of 11.9 h (IQR 10.7-13.3). Crossing time and self-reported fatigue were negatively correlated with prior R2R experience (P=0.02). Crossing R2R in a day is hazardous and associated with risk of injury and illness. The results of this study can be used by Preventive Search and Rescue to reduce these risks by educating hikers.