GOLDSTRIKE CANYON, ARIZONA HOT SPRING TRAILS TO REOPEN SEP 12

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Vanover, Christie

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Aug 27, 2014, 5:12:08 PM8/27/14

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National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

LAKE MEAD NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

News Release For Immediate Release: August 27, 2014

Release No.: 2014-64

Contact: 702-283-2344

GOLDSTRIKE CANYON, ARIZONA HOT SPRING TRAILS TO REOPEN SEP 12

BOULDER CITY, Nevada – Goldstrike Canyon and Arizona Hot Spring trails, which were temporarily closed Aug. 1, will reopen Sept. 12.

The trails were closed because public safety incidents in these canyons have doubled from 2013 to 2014. In 2013, there were 17 incidents, which resulted in one fatality, 31 patients and five medical transports. In the first seven months of 2014, there were 37 incidents, resulting in three fatalities, 35 patients and 13 medical transports. Since the closure, there have been zero search and rescues from these locations.

The initial National Park Service closure, scheduled to end Aug. 31, was extended through Sept. 11 because of a variety of factors, including weather and employee and visitor safety. The Bureau of Reclamation closure was scheduled to end Sept. 14. It will end early. The trails will reopen in their entirety Sept. 12 in time for the popular fall hiking season.

The area known as White Rock Canyon has multiple trails leading to the Arizona Hot Spring, Liberty Bell Arch and the Colorado River. Goldstrike Canyon leads to Goldstrike and Nevada hot springs and the Colorado River.

The trails at both of these locations are strenuous and technical. There is no shade or water and there is limited cellphone service. Hiking Goldstrike involves scrambling and climbing slippery boulders. On the Arizona Hot Spring trails, most of the hike is in a wash. Walking through the soft gravel is similar to the challenge of walking along a beach. On both hikes, the return to the trailhead is uphill, which can be challenging to new hikers after a long day and a soak in the springs.

No matter the time of year, hikers should follow these safety tips:

Bring a gallon of water per person.
Bring salty foods.
Wear boots or hiking shoes.
Wear a hat and sunscreen.
Hike with a buddy.
Tell people where you are going and when you expect to be back.
It’s easier to be rescued near the water than in the middle of the canyon.
Don’t forget to bring water for your pets.

During the closure, the hot springs remain open and accessible from the Colorado River. The River Mountains Loop Trail and Historic Railroad Trail are also open.