Colorado Mountain Biker Dies From Heat Illness on Popular Trail
The Denver Post reported that a 52-year-old man died on a popular mountain bike trail last weekend because of heat related illness.
The Palisade Plunge Trail is more than 30 miles long, and the man was found near mile marker 28 by three other cyclists, who called 911.
This past Saturday, as temperatures soared to record highs in Grand Junction, Colorado, a mountain bike ride on the popular Palisade Plunge Trail turned deadly. A mountain biker was found unconscious and out of water on the trail by three other cyclists, and died from “heat related illness,” according to The Denver Post. The other cyclists, who phoned 911, were eventually treated for dehydration but recovered.
The Palisade Plunge Trail runs from Grand Mesa to the Colorado River, covering more than 3 miles. It’s considered a difficult trail, with challenging terrain and significant elevation gain and drop. The 52-year-old man was found at mile marker 28, according to Gear Junkie, and while rescue helicopters were flown in to come to his aid, he died at the scene. The name of the man has not been released as of June 15.
The three cyclists who found him and called 911 at around 6:45 p.m. were also out of water, despite starting their ride with a gallon each. Temperatures reached 102 degrees on Saturday in the area.
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office released a statement on Crime Watch urging the public to be aware of the risks that come with strenuous activity in the blistering heat:
Temperatures reached a record high of 102 degrees in Grand Junction on Saturday, and triple-digits are expected again on Sunday. Strenuous activity during extreme heat is strongly discouraged. Community members are advised to limit outdoor activities to the early morning hours. The CDC recommends drinking at least 8 oz of water every 15 minutes while doing activities in the heat.
The Palisade Plunge is a 32-mile mountain bike trail with very little shade and sections of extreme exposure. Due to the remote location of the trail, riders must carry all water, food, and emergency supplies. At least 10 liters (2 ½ gallons) of water per person and electrolyte replenishments are recommended for this trail in the summer.
And this recommendation is a good reminder for any cyclist, as summer temperatures begin to rise across the country. According to The Colorado Sun, 107.5 million Americans are under heat advisories this week, so if you’re heading out to ride, make sure you have a smart hydration strategy and are prepared for emergencies.
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