Investigation: Hikers pay deadly price on Zion's Angels Landing trail

[@dougthethug2405]

People are responsible for themselves.

[@rickmelena1035]

Yep. That sums it up with the notable and important exception of children. Their parents are responsible- heart breaking to hear about the 13 year old.

[@LeroyBrown]

Not with viruses. If the government is taking credit for if anyone lives or dies then when anyones eventual death occurs it could be compared similarly to Christ being crucified. Everyone in America a Martyr!!

[@onatarabandrui8375]

Exactly 💯!!

[@spoonypoon7998]

Imagine that... tell that to the sjws and democrats, and also Regressives who wrongly call themselves progressive

[@MurrayPeeps]

Tell that to the first responders and rescue teams responsible for saving and/or recovering people who have accidents.

[@steveshea6148]

There's a sign up front telling people that people have died in falls. There's a chain on the most treacherous part. As long as there's signage explaining the trail and what to expect I think the Park Service has done its job.

[@treasuretrovel3816]

But doesn't it cost the tax payers a lot of money dealing with all the rescues and corpses?

[@jacobkoski5094]

"Data shows hikers are getting to close to the edges" wow. thats quality research.

[@nzsaltflatsracer8054]

LMAO!

[@johnnaylor1706]

The "selfie" generation

[@rcwilson9510]

So THAT'S why people fall. Now I get it!

[@V.E.R.O.]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@malcomreed7032]

If you are on this trail you are always close to the edge.

[@bongbongtravels6108]

Visitors treat Angels Landing like it's Disneyland. Too many people has no business being there. I've been there twice.

[@nomaderic]

Yea im pretty sure half the people hiking it have NO BUSINESS hiking this trail. Not only that way too many people at once

[@GoofyGoober-us7yp]

I did the hike back in early February I got lucky and found a few days when the snow had melted and decided to do it I don’t understand how anyone can hike that in the summer crowds I’ve seen pictures with it crowded and I don’t think there’s a chance I could do to with that many people on such a narrow trail

[@Mrbfgray]

None of your biz what risks others chose for themselves. Don't be a busy body.

[@bongbongtravels6108]

@@Mrbfgray , bro you have an empty channel. Put something in there. I know what I'm talking about. I'm not a coach potato.

[@Mrbfgray]

@@bongbongtravels6108 I don't cater to Momma's Boys with nothing better to do than fret over trivialities and other ppls lives. Sorry.

[@hcrffi]

National Parks IS NOT responsible. Individuals are responsible for themselves, for their own actions. You go too close to the edge, get dizzy, step on an loose rock, slippery surface, etc... then loose your footing and fall. Don't blame anyone but yourselve! Closing the trail is not the solution!

[@sudilos1172]

this story is an attempt to control you. probably just as grooming

[@thomervin7450]

I'm all for personal responsibility. At the same time, what percentage of people would be climbing Angel's Landing if not for chains and the designated trail to the top? I mean, if the trail didn't exist, who would even think the climb it except for a few people?

[@woodyhuband9248]

13 people have died in 19 years and its hours away from Las Vegas. Why is this on local news? Over 500 pedestrians have died in Las Vegas in the last 10 years. Walking across the street in Las Vegas seems to be more dangerous than hiking Angels Landing.

[@mrrusss510]

It’s not a trail issue. It’s a human error.

[@juliaweber5026]

No it’s a park issue if they do a trail that’s dangerous then they need to make it safer or close it

[@juliaweber5026]

Maybe only rock climber can take trail

[@MB-mh6xv]

@@juliaweber5026 Nope. It's human error. I've hiked it for over 40 years. One has to always know their limits.

[@honcore5055]

@@juliaweber5026 driving back and forth to work is more dangerous then 1 random trail people just need to understand their limits

[@patroberts5449]

I can see the use of permitting might help, but people need to be responsible especially ones with minors in their care! Don’t rail up the trail or close it, just educate and maybe permit like half dome in Yosemite.

[@roush26]

You can't hold everyone's hand. Let it be, they know the risks. You can't pucify the world in the name of safety. Said it yourself, 641 hikes a day. In 10 years that's over 2.3 million hikes and only 13 deaths. Get over it.

[@reptar69]

his last thought was probably "Oh fk"

[@soulkeeper48]

@Sometimes Right wishing death on someone makes you the loser fuc*wit

[@pattihainline1573]

Well it's a sad thing! But, he'd been there before he knew the risk's! No-one should ever be on those mountain's alone! That time who know's could have saved his life! Very sad!

[@roush26]

@Sometimes Right Don't want him to die, but risky is that, risky, should we ban skydiving because a dozen people die every year? Should we ban climbing Mt. Everest? Motorsports? 13 deaths in 20 years is insignificant at cost of shutting something amazing down.

[@soulkeeper48]

@Sometimes Right lolol you're absolutely delusional 🤣 or your a troll either way your still a fu*wit

[@weirdshibainu]

I did half dome 2 years ago. The ranger at the bottom of the sub dome was checking my permit when a guy came down from the sub dome and started bitching at her about why people aren't required to wear harnesses on the cables, that it's dangerous. She tried to explain to him that the park service has a theory of the wild where, in order to keep the wilderness experience as pure as possible, people need to take responsibility. He wouldn't let up on his complaining. She asked where he was from and he said Poland. She said" How would you like it if I came to Poland and told you how to run things?" I burst out laughing and he just walked off.

[@monkeymikemoves]

Awesome story haha! I love the Park Rangers at Yosemite.

[@doracampos2088]

👏👏👏👏🤣

[@garyp.7501]

He's right, a harness would reduce the number of deaths on that trail.

[@weirdshibainu]

@@garyp.7501 Not the point. Hike at your own risk means exactly that. Glad she sent him packing.

[@marshallsweatherhiking1820]

Don’t call it a hike. Call it climbing. Its very very basic climbing, but there’s always a larger element of risk when you aren’t just walking a trail the whole way. I normally don’t like the “personal responsibility” crap when it comes from certain people because it often doesn’t actually apply when situations are not really in a persons full control. In this case it does apply because climbing is a leisure activity, not something you have to do to pay the bills. Yea, the cables can be dicey if the weather turns, but theres warnings all over telling people to turn around if conditions are not dry.

[@buck3565]

The main person described had experience on that trail. He knew and willingly accepted the risk.

[@treasuretrovel3816]

Yes, and if a super fit, experienced, young man is in great danger on that trail then, for sure, that 13 year old girl, for example, should never have been allowed up there. The adults should have protected her. One of the rangers in the video warns that parents should stay near kids. What? Anyone think a parent, hanging on to the chain could have enough strength and react quick enough to save their kids. Any parent who has their kids up there is guilty of child endangerment. Manslaughter if they fall.

[@dmerth]

Show personal responsibility. Don't hike unprepared. Know the risks associated with your decisions. Don't blame others when you don't make the correction ones.

[@robgrant7683]

This is my favorite hike and I’ve done it 6 times. It absolutely should remain open. People are responsible for themselves up there and the trail should not be altered or closed just because some people make stupid decisions. It isn’t even that hard of a hike so I believe the accidents are due to carelessness, not the difficulty of the trail. I recently did the Precipice Trail in Acadia National Park in Maine and thought it was technically more challenging. Another great hike for experienced hikers who know their capabilities.

[@linjicakonikon7666]

Seek help Grant.

[@clax5612]

@@linjicakonikon7666 Why?

[@linjicakonikon7666]

@@clax5612 I don't have my crayons with me so I can't explain it to someone like you.

[@clax5612]

@@linjicakonikon7666 What a sad person you are. Go to therapy obviously you aren't happy.

[@BabyMilo444]

@@linjicakonikon7666 🤡

[@jonmacdonald5345]

I say we should remove all warnings off of everything and let nature take it's course

[@MB-mh6xv]

Yep. Absolutely.

[@davidhilton5414]

Great Idea!!

[@standingonmountain3975]

Park shouldn't have made a trail. An official trail is an open invitation.

[@littleredhen8205]

Agreed. Natural selection in action.

[@a1ar127]

Darwin rules!

[@gnohn9366]

Climbed it when I was in my late 50’s with no problem. You just have to be careful of your footing and use the handholds provided. Saw numerous people going up wearing flip flops, carrying water bottles in one hand.

[@1guysopinion798]

I experience this all the time, even in this video you can see a woman with sandals on.

[@michellem7300]

Flip flops wtf lol

[@linjicakonikon7666]

G Nohn, Was your hike worth dying for? What's wrong with you?

[@1guysopinion798]

@@linjicakonikon7666 you stay on your sofa and you'll be safe honey.

[@MrDaveB123]

Ahhh the flip flop idiots They amaze me !

[@janebeckman3431]

People tend to underestimate risk. We were at Yellowstone, which is posted with warnings, and a woman was letting her kids run across the edge of the geyser basin. My husband pointed out the danger and she said "Oh, it's okay. They know what they're doing." WTF? I'm an experienced hiker and rock climber, but declined Angel's Landing on the day I was there because 1: It was afternoon in winter, and I knew how long a hike like that would take on a short day, and 2: It was winter, and there were still icy patches on the canyon walls. I actually know the risks.

[@Iluv2crochet]

Yeah and those are the kind of people who immediately sue someone when something happens!

[@virginiasolomon9352]

You should have told that woman you recorded what she was allowing her kids to do and you'd report her to child services. These are the people who need their kids taken because they clearly aren't looking out for their well-being.

[@newmexicoballer3867]

There are just a lot of dumb people out there.

[@gaz4840]

We were in Yellowstone in 2016 from UK. A week later we read that some bloke had deliberately gone off the path to take photos and fallen into a geyser. Reports said that his body couldnt be recovered because only his clothes were left.. Hmmm... Interesting and Scary

[@peterweber3830]

I saw that at the Grand Canyon, a young girl about 7 was running on all the outcropping, it was cute but dangerous. Even so maybe she was a ram in her former life

[@GalenRhys]

The park service should film a 3D virtual video of the climb. It would be a good source of revenue and a safer experience for those not able to climb. Climbing up is easy but getting down is the hard part.

[@pattihainline1573]

This dude & they even said it had been there several times! So he knew what this trail was!

[@GoofyGoober-us7yp]

Weirdly enough I found getting down easier definitely less nerve racking I think I had just gotten over all the nerves I had on my way up

[@spidermanbackpack]

more than 30k ppl die every year from car accidents in the US but nobody says anything about it but 13 ppl die from a hike and they want to close it off??? WTF????

[@nicholasgibbens2000]

Keep the Nanny State away from National Parks! Be careful or face the consequences! Take responsibility.

[@out2launch]

STAY HOME! - NEWS FLASH, hiking, kayaking, surfing, water sports, skiing, mountain climbing, etc, all come with risks! If you are not prepared to take them, don't understand the risks, cannot prepare yourself mentally or physically to handle inherent risks, Stay Home and safe. The world is not responsible for safeguarding you once you leave the comfort of your remote control and couch. So tired of whining and over litigation, regulation on activities in the U.S. So happy I grew up in an era where we could fall of our skateboards, bikes, motorcycles, ropes, snowmobiles, and horses without everyone panicking and litigating safety gear.

[@NewAmericanRevolution]

Agree 100%

[@texmexia49]

Yosemite has a similar problem with folks dying in the park. Many of them ignore posted warning signs and: wade into water around falls; take selfies on cliffs or with wildlife; or underestimate Half Dome.

[@ronwade5433]

Same thing happens at the Grand Canyon South Rim when kids and adults get off trail, go around, under or over chain and steel tube barriers and ignore signage to, At All Times Stay On Trail.

[@jkat9871]

UPDATE Permits are now required to hike this trail. A lottery system is used to disburse the permits.

[@EricDehart]

Closing this trail would be a travesty

[@katie195]

No complaints. I’ll watch videos. Dedicated flat lander here. Zion is NOT a picnic county park.

[@bradgrand79]

The trail is challenging and wonderful, leave it alone

[@Twobarpsi]

I went to Zion. I was smart enough to know my limitations, and did not hike this trail.

[@PatsPurposefulPutzing]

I got to the chain section and went no further. I'm a tall guy (high center of gravity) with big feet (that didn't fit on the narrow ledge). Still scares me to think about it.

[@Twobarpsi]

@@PatsPurposefulPutzing same physical size as well...also I don't like ladders for the same reason.

[@nomorebadgov8873]

Some of that trail is super narrow....only a couple feet wide if that and a drop off on either side , so keeping 6 ft away from an edge is impossible. Why anyone would bring a kid up there is just beyond me. Not for a cute little hike.

[@lindaleiker8643]

Unfortunately, professional hikers, and those that have taken this as a serious sport will get limited in the places they can go because people overestimate their abilities to height things such as this. If you’re going to go for a hike, you should do a research just looking at others doing this hike or even a virtual, run of angels landing would be enough to say no I’m not able to do that. I feel for the mom. I’m very sorry for her loss.

[@BD-xi1tv]

I have hiked Angels Landing 50 times that I have logged, I know and accept the risk. I focus on my feet and always use the chains. I love hiking this trail!

[@rayray4192]

Thanks for the post. What was it like for you the first time?

[@samridhmukhiya]

People who hike trails like this do so on their own accord and do it because they love it. Risk is their own. Its not anybody else's business. This coverage of the incident seems tailored negatively towards the trail and park management. Warning signs are posted and there is safety placed without disrupting trail where possible. This news channels coverage fails to showcase opinions from different perspectives. Inadequate journalism.

[@moretoliving2236]

Ok so let's do the math for the journalists at news network who could not bother to. 21 years. 641 hikers per day. = 4,913,265 people who have hiked the darn thing since 2000. 13 people died. That means that statistically speaking 99.9997% of people hike that trail just fine. And what seems to be the problem?????????????????????????????

[@danieldonegan6914]

This reporter must be a liberal. “Why not close the trail?” Yes, we all need the government to protect us from ourselves. Please, you climb, you take the risk, you reap the reward or suffer the consequence.

[@jamespeters8601]

If you don’t want to fall, don’t get near the edge. Great advice thank you.

[@rcwilson9510]

Yes, that never would have occurred to me. lol

[@humboldtharry4248]

The yellow snow advisory was appreciated as well.

[@amandamartinez9497]

as an avid hiker, seeing footage of the trail I would count myself out. that looks pretty scary and very dangerous.

[@steve390gold]

It's not that bad. Def has some scary sections but go slow and maintain 3 points of attachment

[@sudilos1172]

My mom went hiking, and she noticed that at a Very Narrow place. Hikers pass touching each other instead of taking turns. She said one guy seemed very intent on pushing people. So she insisted on standing against the rock face instead of on the outside. After a stalemate, he eventually was forced to pass on the outside. She said "Never again!". Could this be the work of a Serial Killer? They all died alone...

[@conndapierce5869]

They should take a photo of him and what part of the trail this happens at with him. There are people who do these things in purpose. He may have found a way to kill without getting caught.

[@suzi2570]

Hike at your own risk. I did this hike in October-got to the first part of the chain section and decided it wasn’t for me-and I was well aware EHAT lay ahead. People are responsible for knowing what they are getting into-it’s not anyone else’s job to take care of you.

[@JF-dy2dr]

100% agree. I know my limits. I have done Observation Point 5 times. I have not gone beyond Scouts Lookout.

[@jaabab]

Me too....me and my wife turned back

[@mrdad-zl9zl]

My question is, is it easy to turn around or do you have to wait a while for other people to pass first? From some pictures I've seen theres can be a lot of people hiking on it. But these may be been older photos. Im not interested in hiking this I'm just curious

[@suzi2570]

@@mrdad-zl9zl it wasn’t too bad to turn around because we had just begun the chain part. The traffic is all one way in the same side of the chain. You just need to find a safe area to switch sides. If I’m not mistaken -now you need a reservation to hike it-I suppose to help control the crowds

[@trwent]

There is nothing wrong with just going as far as Scout's Lookout. It is still a great, beautiful hike just up to there. And 100% safe.

[@dwj6503]

The National Park Is not responsible nor liable for foolish or careless behavior of hikers.

[@christianramirez4379]

I went there once and almost died a few times because by the time we got up there, it started to snow. Slipped and fell on my ass a few times and some others were scary but those chains REALLY help.

[@Liberty_Tree]

Well, If you're going to climb a cliff in the snow.....

[@raycano5408]

@@Liberty_Tree not to bright are you

[@bobbilly9136]

@@Liberty_Tree why was the trail open on a day with snow in the forecast. drop this individualistic libertarian mindset of everyone for themselves. The park should do something.

[@apples8872]

@@bobbilly9136 lol or maybe look at the forecast before hiking a dangerous trail?

[@thomervin7450]

@@bobbilly9136 I'm probably one of those individualists you're talking about, and yet I think because the park created the trail that it has some responsibility to protect people.

[@stevewhalen6973]

As a lifetime hiker age 70 now and still active , I would never hike this trail .

[@NewAmericanRevolution]

Weenie

[@debrafrei4717]

Stop trying to make the park and other people responsible for YOUR ACTIONS! Here’s a thought, “Hmm this looks beyond my skill level, maybe I should turn around and go back.....” Close the trail? NO, people need to TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEMSELVES!

[@Jbird-sx4zk]

Yes but if people keep dying every few years on this trail, the responsible thing as human beings is to cut down on the possibility of death by either closing trails such as these, or making it permit based on a limited amount daily, etc. It's the Park's responsibility at some point to protect people to the best of their ability, and not to just be like "well that's just nature another person falling off and dying."

[@debrafrei4717]

@@Jbird-sx4zk It is not the responsibility of the park to protect people. People need to take responsibility for their own actions. People like you are the biggest part of the problem......it’s always someone else’s fault, someone else’s responsibility.

[@Jbird-sx4zk]

@@debrafrei4717 Ma'am I understand people usually are at fault in these situations, but some of the responses on here are pretty heartless, and strike me as coming from selfish outdoorsy people who are probably the more experienced type hikers and don't care how many people die as long as they have access to their particular hikes/paths. People are often incredibly foolish and careless at National Parks these days, and you can't police everyone's behavior, but if you're leaving a trail open where many people are dying perhaps you have to help protect people from themselves a little moreso moving forward.

[@Jbird-sx4zk]

I've never been on this trail by the way...I'm not saying close it down, but perhaps have permits, limit the amount of people on it, or in some way make it safer.

[@teejay3272]

Right off the bat this very experienced hiker and backpacker saw the issue. The reporter, who I'd be anything isn't a hiker, went with "Not that long or steep." People who don't hike truly don't understand what five miles can entail. And people who don't hike go to NP destinations like this and they're driven by ego. The guy said it. "Bucket list hike." For real hikers? Most don't want to do it because of the throngs. When you mix arrogance and a lack of experience bad things can happen. So many are taught to be fearful of the wilderness, or think it comes with guardrails, when RESPECT is the message that should be sent.

[@half.blight]

Well said, nature is beautiful but absolutely unforgiving

[@JT_70]

I was surprised at the number of people hiking at Zion and on upper Bright Angel in the Grand Canyon wearing flip flops, sandals, Crocs and saw one guy barefooted. And, there were lots of parents hiking steep trails with infants in backpack or frontal child carriers. I did not hike Angel’s Landing.

[@Liberty_Tree]

how many people die in car accidents. No body has to go on this trail. Stop trying to bubble wrap a world. YOU CAN'T DO IT

[@beatpirate8]

i had a great time in zion but i chose to go to other trails . i saw at 8 am there were already so many people on that trail and i heard there was many stalled especially when someone gets queasy. i already have fear of heights so a narrow path would not be ok for me. i felt slightly guilty for not going to angels landing but i had spectacular views on many other hikes. its like you can enjoy yosemite without doing half dome. rest in peace. and peace be with you mama im sorry for your loss.

[@rayray4192]

Nice post. One man I spoke to as I sat and relaxed at Scout Lookout seemed traumatized by Angel’s landing. Others have climbed in the snow. It depends upon your fear of heights.

[@gigigigian3988]

I went there three years ago and the last part of the trailer where you hold the chain is very scary. I didn’t do it. I made a U-turn. It’s not safe at all me and my two kids. It wasn’t that much left anyway and we saw we were at the top almostwasn’t worth the risk

[@stoneyboycurtis6887]

Look into how many people disappear from national parks in the US. Missing 411with David Paulides - scary stuff!

They are being eaten by giants, Bigfoot, Sasquatch like creatures.

[@spaceycrystal]

Yesssss

[@steve390gold]

At the bottom of that sign on angels landing at scouts lookout it is VERY CLEAR. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR SAFETY!! If people fall and die, then they die. That is ENTIRELY ON THEM. And the lard ass saying he would be ok with it being permanently closed likely has a hard time hiking to his refrigerator....

[@Latabrine]

😂

[@RichardAmesMusic]

I bet more than a million people have hiked that trail, including me and my kids. If 13 have died that's less than a 0.0013% fatality rate. Fatality rates for drivers are about 1,000x higher. I guess we need to close all the roads. This is some really bad reporting.

[@gigigigian3988]

Only the last part with the chain is dangerous before that there’s no risk

[@MrFg1980]

The only people hiking Angel's Landing should be those with a healthy respect for exposure, not a naiveté of it.

[@liz5488]

Fully agree that it needs a permit system. I hiked it last summer, insanely packed so dangerous saw teenagers jump/skipping carelessly down the cliff and saw a few people with babies on their backs doing the hike too

[@ridewithgnr2116]

Natural selection at it’s finest. Forget the permit. Let foolish people go their way and keep lawyers out of it. It is a “natural park.”

[@jakesonaplane_]

How did you hike it last summer? It was closed from March-October 2020

[@liz5488]

@@jakesonaplane_ sorry it was may of 2019

[@liz5488]

@ROM LUNDY Yosemite has a permit system for one of their hikes and I’m pretty sure it’s free.

[@liz5488]

@ROM LUNDY costs the same as zion. All permits are free. Look into their permit system for jmt. It’s not about money it’s about limiting the amount of ppl on a dangerous hike. Again it’s free

[@natalieriv28]

They need more railings period

[@ShippingRefund]

maybe he got into a arguement with someone and got push over,

[@pnk878251]

Thats very sad. We just never know...r.i.p.

[@LordAmalthea]

Of course the overweight bureaucrat wants the trail closed

[@rayray4192]

He didn’t say he wants the trail closed. He said he has problem if it were to be closed.

[@Danthemant1000]

Do at your own risk! Nobody is making you hike. Wtf man.

[@WillN2Go1]

I watch these local TV news reports on KZbin and usually bash them for mindless repetition, their false piety, gross ignorance. This one however is top notch. Great job. As a hiker who has been interested in this trail this KTNV report is full of essential information. Thank you.

[@ictfc1897]

...from the images I see some people not even using proper boots....that should be the first thing to be checked and not permitted....

[@rayray4192]

On November 13, 2023 I hiked up to Scout lookout . It was a warm fall day. I had no permit so I couldn’t hike Angel’s Landing. I sat and relaxed and chatted with the park ranger who was checking permits. She was training two people to check permits. Heads -up. You must also present an I.D. which some did not have. The previous day was a Sunday- 800 permit holders hiked Angel’s landing. Zero fell and died. I asked the Ranger if the trail was dangerous. She said yes, the trail is dangerous and fun. Hiking up to Scout Lookout is a work out and interesting in itself. The view from on top is wonderful. You don’t have to hike Angel’s Landing to have a great experience. 400 permits per day are reservations, and 400 are the daily lottery system.

[@rayray4192]

All the hikers I saw show their permit had good footwear on.

[@a97304]

Two years later I have come back to this site...and now Angels Landing is more restricted. That is not a cure for stupid. Falling off the edge when you get too close....surely is. Spectacular hike! and I tolerate the chains because it keeps the trail at least open. Let us also count the number of deaths by car that were *on the way* to visit Zion. Likely an order of magnitude bigger in that time frame. You don't see them closing the "attractive nuisance", do you? How about closing roads unless you hire a professional driver, just to be safe? Men were more likely to get too close to the edge. Duly noted Cause of death: gravity with testosterone poisoning as a contributing factor. Does not mention heart attacks....so how about that?

[@samuelfink4799]

When you choose to do dangerous activities you choose to accept the negative possibilities.

[@Waiting4Him111]

Bonehead doesn't want more railing because it would detract from the natural beauty, but he wants to close it down.

[@Phoenixhunter157]

He left the trail….that’s a big reason why people fall from trails like this. He felt comfortable exploring. The trail is there for a reason…….Roughly 18 people have fallen from angels landing since the early 1900’s. That’s not a crazy amount. The concern is that most of those have been in the last 15 years. From 1908-2009 there had been 5 deaths from falling. The rest happening after 2009. That should give some clarity and perspective of the dramatization. But I’m sure there will be more now due to people getting selfies near the edge or going off trail and videoing it for Instagram.

[@marksauce2383]

Leaving the trail no big deal. Leaving the mountain, yikes!!! 😮

[@Phoenixhunter157]

@@marksauce2383 I’ve been on trails that if you were to stray off the trail by a few yards you’re getting a ride home in a helicopter or body bag to the morgue. So yes the trail is very much a big deal .

[@thelakeman5207]

I hiked it twice and I'm still alive. I wouldn't let kids go up there. You WILL die if you are not careful.

[@steveshea6148]

Here's the deal: people who would hike that should, realize they are taking their life in their hands. It's a cliff. Anyone who climbs also knows that coming down is always much more dangerous than going up. It's both trickier inherently and you're tired. And weather conditions can change. Note that you won't find me walking up anything like that in a casual fashion . I wouldn't feel prepared for that terrain in general without a 150 feet of rope etc at with me on my back. It's high angle rock, aka, you can easily die on it. I think it should be left open., although it will likely end up restricted. Signed, not a wimp, just have a tiny bit of experience and a clue.--( and not saying this guy was clueless. you can still die if you have experience and equipment. On a hike like that you are knowingly taking a risk, he took it, and unfortunately pulled the low card in the deck during his hike. Should it closed to people? Hell no.

[@brianparks8321]

"Why not close Angel's Landing trail all together." "I have no problem with that." Screw you guys.

[@ziggy2shus624]

If I was as fat as that guy, I wouldn't go on the trail either.

[@PhoenixRisen63]

How many of them fell whilst taking selfies? I can tell you that we have lost several on the Oregon Coast that way.

[@ggrrr4858]

Thanks for trying to close a natural wonder on behalf of people being susceptible to natural selection. 👍sensational

[@nla5307]

I've done this hike once, it happened to begin hailing at the top. We climbed slowly on the way down because the ground was now wet and I slipped. A man out of no where grabbed my arm before I fell. He stood up and just kept going. I could have barreled down the cliff. I would still go on the hike again but take caution as it is dangerous and people have died on it.

[@dlrunner]

"Investigation: Hikers pay deadly price on Zion's Angels Landing trail for being stupid. " There, I fixed the headline.

[@123gozane]

I noticed a woman climbing with flat sandals on? WTF!!!

[@dps6198]

I've hiked that trail twice about five years ago. The hike is a dangerous one. The people that hike that trail don't take it seriously. The trail can get overcrowded with people trying to pass each other when they should take turns and allow a small group to pass then they themselves can pass. Then there are the unattended kids that run rampant on the trail and many times leave the trail. I talked to the park superintendent a year or two ago and they had public hearings to determine what to do. One idea was to restrict the number of hikers on by setting a lottery or something with a limited number of tickets and allowing only groups of people to access the trail during their scheduled time. All in the name of safety. There was a huge push back and the park abandoned the idea. I feel they should restrict the number that hike angels landing. The 13 deaths represent a small percent of the total number of hikers over the last 100 years, Since those of you who are careless and don't take the seriousness of this hike Darwin's theory will catch up to you sooner or later.

[@CheckThisOut77]

Hikers need to completely take responsibility. I have been to Zion NP ( my favorite NP) but I know I should not do this hike.

[@johns1625]

People almost always fall taking a selfie or doing some dumb yoga pose on a cliff edge. It's not even a hard or scary hike... You have to try to fall off in order to do it. Nobodies fault but their own. This segment is alarmist as hell

[@CoryHatfield]

Only ignorant people fall. The kid only fell because their guardians were ignorant and they had no place being there in the first place.

[@jodypalmer4506]

The park service should not be liable. I was JUST there two days ago, and I have enough sense to choose not to climb the chain area. There is no ambiguity regarding the danger as you can clearly see that if you fall, you die. This is a hike at your own risk situation. Anyone can choose not to continue onto the dangerous part.

[@rayray4192]

Good comment. You had a permit, but decided not to do the hike? The chain section starts from almost step #1.

[@rayray4192]

You mean you hiked up to Scout Lookout, and stopped? The chain section is very early in the Angel’s Landing hike.

[@jodypalmer4506]

@@rayray4192 Um, what? The chain section of Angles' Landing is way up there. It took quite a while to get to it.

[@jodypalmer4506]

Yes, I think it is called Scout Lookout where I stopped. There are lots of squirrels there and toilets, which was a surprise that high up. No chance I was going to go up the chains. @@rayray4192

[@rayray4192]

@@jodypalmer4506 yes, when you leave Grotto bus stop it’s 2.5 miles to Scout lookout and the start of Angel’s landing.

[@MickAngelhere]

Whenever one goes into the wilderness, it’s their own personal responsibility to ensure their safety and survival and of those around them. I have fallen down a cliff in the Blue Mountains in NSW . I wasn’t looking where I was going and the next thing I knew, was sliding down the steep slope of the mountain. Bounced off a rock, picked up speed and managed to grab thankfully a very sturdy small tree that stopped me from going over the edge into the valley below. My feet were literally hanging off the edge, called out to my mates that I was hiking with, they stuck their heads over the edge to see me hanging on for dear life. They told me to quit mucking around and to get back up onto the track. Half an hour later I finally made it back to find them quietly smoking and when they saw me they had the cheek to tell me that I took my bloody time. This was forty years ago, and they didn’t run around like headless chickens and go running off to get help, for they knew that I was alive and wasn’t injured and that I was perfectly able to climb back up that cliff. Respect the natural world for its a deadly beast, beautiful and wild

[@wfwillis]

Several years ago I attempted to hike this trail, but when I came to the narrow spot where the drop off is 1200' on one side and 800' on the other I chickened out and turned around. I don't like heights anyway because I'm a clumsy type of person, and I was in my late 60s when attempting this hike. Then, when turning around I slipped on some loose sand/gravel and fell on my butt, and slid a couple feet. A lady screamed and her husband grabbed me by my shirt. I was probably 3' from the edge when stopped. Scared the crap out of me!

[@NguyenGiaoUsA]

Leave your backpacks at Scout Lookout. That'll help out a lot with your balance on the way up and down Angels trail. And please, use both hands to concentrate on your hiking. Those KZbinrs are too busy with their Go Pros. Safety FIRST!

[@angelomariano9494]

MAIN ISSUE: selfie, posting on internet culture. Many years ago, people did things in the moment, focused; they did not need to get the great shot to post it on Facebook. Things were done with calm and gain at a normal pace. Nowdays we all rushing, we all impatient stars

[@yadienan]

the name speaks for itself, that’s why we never tried risking our lives to get there

[@edwardgomez3633]

Stupid to close the trail. Make a video of it and make it mandatory viewing prior to hike.

[@rayray4192]

Good idea. If you go to the wild land counter for hikes in the park that do require permits you are required to watch a video. I think Subway Trail requires a permit. Perhaps only if you do it top down because it’s canyoneerimg. Requires rappelling. Check me on that.

[@FloydRigby]

Heights like this never bothered me until I took some young Cub Scouts on the hike. Everyone must try and look over the edge. From that point on I was nervous of heights like this. The beauty and majesty of this hike is well worth the effort. Every human should experience this. Just be careful and when looking down hang on the rail and you will; be safe. Looking down from these heights causes dizziness, especially for we older geezers.

[@loganlien1848]

10 deaths in 20 years lol that’s such a low rate and they’re freaking out about that 🤨 must have nothing else better to do.

[@sugardalit]

Omg i hope they will not close this trail.... we are responsible for our own actions

[@shawnbrodrick8673]

Kraig Adams made a video on this trail..looks beautiful but he complained it was crowded.

[@daddyjankie]

And they took a *picture* where he fell?

[@EsotericSyncretism]

It is super busy and can get really sketch when the crowds come. Lots of people inexperienced and not taking it seriously. I couldn’t believe the recklessness I observed in some people up there.

[@tortoisewhisperer1580]

I did not hear any discussion on the weather being a potential factor to any of these accidents. Weather can change fast there, thunderstorms, wind and rain can happen quickly, wetting the trail and/or making it difficult for a hiker to maintain their position and stability. It looks like at least a portion of that hike is sandstone which can get slippery when wet.

[@nla5307]

Yes it hailed when we got to the top!

[@a97304]

I am sorry. I am sorry that people fail to read or consider the plentiful warnings, that some have no concept of their own abilities or they have an inflated sense of their abilities and seem to want to take excessive risks, stepping off the trail exploring and possibly resulting in a self-imposed accident. It is likely that each of these accidents could have been prevented with education which apparently was ignored. It was their right to make that decision, if they can buy the insurance to pay for the consequences. I am also sorry that some people think that the nanny state should force the rest of us to enjoy nature and adventure....on a video at home or from the safety of our car. At 70, I am still having adventure in my life, and yes I have done this trail and have had what some might consider far more risky adventures. I know more than most where that edge of 99.99% safety is...for me. Don''t you think everyone else should also have that same opportunity, but with the direction that all and their families should absolutely accept the responsibility for their actions?

[@a97304]

@ROM LUNDY Well no. I think you have that backwards. Conservatives take things away from the poor. Remember how they raised NP entrance fees!????! Pay to play. Liberal policies hold free lotteries for access to some areas, or some first come first served system. Sure, maybe the poor have to work when they open the phonelines or online registration so they should fairly open those lines at 2AM...instead at 9AM on a workday. If you care for the poor so much ( like I do ) you should support govt funding for open NPS and FS systems at reasonable rates. This happens when the conservatives are in the minority in legislatures and other power positions. CEOs do not belong in public service! Simple, vote for Democrats to protect affordable access.

[@a97304]

@ROM LUNDY Try raising people's taxes then? You know how that would go.

[@a97304]

@ROM LUNDY Not sure he did say that but I would certainly expect that taxes will rise. Surely they should for the wealthier, like me, to pay more our fair share to keep more public spaces and social programs available for the needy. I am not greedy. People need to at least be comfortable. The tax rate use to be much higher for us. Politicians gave us a bonus for making so much, somehow thinking they woul;d help stimulate the economy. Didn't happen, again. The wealthier spent it on second homes, better vacations, more expensive toys...while many people had to work two jobs to break even. True a few uber wealthy like Bill Gates plowed lots back into donations for social good, but he is practically alone in this regard. Nobody really **earns** $3000/hr but 16,000 Americans actually do take that out of the economy. No I am not one of those, but I would even notice if you doubled my taxes. WTH am I doing on KZbin? Retired for the first time 'forever' decades ago, and now on my third and last retirement. Got bored, so agreed to accept a couple of jobs and am 2 years into finding ways to keep busy.

[@shane_asylum]

There is a serious difference between bucket list tourists and experienced hikers/backpackers. Ah duh!

[@Impozalla]

Angels landing can be a very dangerous hike. People need to be careful when hiking up to there.

[@KrazyKrzysztof]

13 dead since 2002? How many did cars and mcdonald kill?

[@Mikesroadtrip-ec5kp]

You are responsible for yourself!!

[@Maximoootom]

It’s nature not an amusement park.

[@thrummer1953]

It needs more Chain.

[@superh2923]

Hike at your own risk...plain and simple. Use your brains and keep government out of it.

[@thomashughes_teh]

There is a much less famous approach to Angel's Landing peak that takes much longer to hike. I only hiked down when I was there. It ended a multiple day backpacking trip. It's one of the most thrilling and beautiful places I ever walked.

[@GoofyGoober-us7yp]

Do you know where the trail to do that starts I would love to do a backpacking trip up to angels landing through zion

[@javakat343]

@@GoofyGoober-us7yp I did Ziom last week. Check out east overlook trail. You have to drive north of the park and hike south to the overlook but you can see ALL of Angel's Landing below you. It's pretty rad.

[@spoonypoon7998]

People who get permits can still fall! The guy who just fell has hiked it twice before... people who think they have the answers are stupid

[@persistentdreams]

I was sure we were going to see someone fall at the Grand Canyon some years ago. The number of people climbing over railings and standing at the edges, climbing onto unstable peninsulas of rock, and letting their children run along the rim trail near the edge was frightening. And there were no rangers around that we could see.

[@missgabriella702]

I'm afraid of heights so if you even go up there thats where you messed up in my mind lol

[@steveshea6148]

Lol

[@johnwren3976]

With you on that. GRAVITY, its the law.

[@tejas3818]

I have done Angel's Landing a few times, Lady Mountain twice, and most of the other marked trails in Zion, Arches, and Canyonlands' Island in the Sky district, and so many other off trail hikes from Kolob Mountain to the Ls Sals, not to mention the Boulder Plateau, the Henry Mountains, and along the Wasatch Front including Timpanogos, Bell's Canyon, Mt Olympus, and down on White Mesa and the Bears Ears. Some of these hikes were "dangerous." I grew up in the city, Houston. The number 1 cause of accidents in the great outdoors is carelessness. The government cannot protect you from your own actions. Permits are not going to prevent carelessness or death. Utah has been very good to me! So has the Creator. Did I mention Kanab, Mesa Verde, the Grand Canyon (North and South Rims), Havasupai, Little Santa Anita, Mt. Wilson, Black Rock Desert, Yellow Cat, Vasquez Rocks, Salvation Mountain, and one super secret trail that led me back to myself? Life has been good. I hope I die on the trail!