‘Make sure you’re overpreparing’: Rescues near Zion National Park prompt safety reminders

SALT LAKE CITY — Thirteen hikers had to be rescued from Zion National Park and nearby areas on Thursday after running out of water.

Twelve of the hikers were teenage boys, ages 17 through 18, hiking on the Cottonwood trail.

Related: Stay healthy when you exercise or play outdoors in the Utah heat

Washington County Search and Rescue Sgt. Jacob Paul said the teens ran out of water, and nine of them started feeling unwell.

Three of the boys had to be airlifted out.

Additionally, a man in his 40s was rescued off the Subway Canyon trail in Zion. He had also run out of water and was possibly having seizures from the combination of lack of water and the heat. The man was taken to the hospital.

Related:  Hiking alone? Pack these essentials

Paul said it’s important to always be prepared with more water than you think you need, enough for yourself and one other person.

“Make sure you’re overpreparing for what you think. The heat and dryness in this area really just wreaks havoc on people’s ability to stay hydrated.”