As the host of The Grand Canyon Hiker Dude Show podcast, co-founder of Hike Tribe Grand Canyon, and an outspoken advocate for hiking safety in Grand Canyon National Park, I am issuing this statement out of deep concern for the safety of thousands of hikers attempting a Rim-to-Rim crossing during the 2025 season — in particular those with north-to-south itineraries.

Bright Angel Trail — the traditionally safer southbound exit due to its water access, shade, and emergency support infrastructure — will be inaccessible from the Colorado River/Phantom Ranch area at the bottom of the Canyon during the hottest and most dangerous time of year: May 15 through September 30, 2025. This is due to the closure of the River Trail between Silver Bridge and River Resthouse, related to the ongoing Transcanyon Waterline Project. Consequently, all southbound Rim-to-Rim hikers will be required to ascend to the South Rim via the South Kaibab Trail, a route known for its steep grade, full sun exposure, and lack of water sources.

This closure could lead to a significant spike in heat-related emergencies — and potential fatalities — involving unprepared hikers. It could also place additional strain on the rangers, volunteers, and search & rescue teams who serve below the rim with dedication and grit.

The National Park Service announced this closure on April 9, 2025, just over a month before the implementation date. This short notice is simply insufficient for adequately informing the public, especially those who have planned their hikes months or years in advance. Many Rim-to-Rim hikers may arrive at the Canyon for their bucket-list adventure unaware of these changes, and without the necessary strategy to safely navigate the more demanding South Kaibab Trail in extreme conditions.

Every year, hikers suffer from heat-related illnesses in the Grand Canyon, sometimes with fatal outcomes — even under what might be considered optimal conditions. Redirecting all southbound traffic onto the physically demanding and less supported South Kaibab Trail during the hottest time of year increases these risks. My fear — and I say this with a heavy heart — is that fatalities are unavoidable under the current plan, which is scheduled to take effect this Thursday.

To be clear: I hold tremendous respect for the National Park Service and, in particular, for the rangers, volunteers, and search-and-rescue teams who dedicate themselves to visitor safety. My concern is not directed at them but at the leadership-level decisions that may inadvertently place both visitors and staff in high-risk situations.

I also want to acknowledge the critical importance of the Transcanyon Waterline Project. This infrastructure is vital to the Canyon’s future, ensuring the delivery of potable water to the South Rim. The work being undertaken is both necessary and commendable, especially given the challenging and remote environment in which these dedicated workers operate. I believe, however, that the closure of the River Trail and elimination of the safest route out of the Canyon during peak season creates a significant threat to public safety that a) should never have been allowed to occur and b) has not yet been adequately addressed.

If the River Trail must remain closed, then clear and forceful public communication—including an active outreach campaign—must be implemented. There should also be an increase in on-trail ranger presence, and strategic safety measures should be put in place and shared with the public. But even all that might not be enough.

I urge the NPS to prioritize transparency, preparation, and above all, safety in this very serious situation.

Lives depend on it.

Brian Speciale
Host, The Grand Canyon Hiker Dude Show
Co-founder, Hike Tribe Grand Canyon
Advocate for the Grand Canyon Hiking Community