In the vast Utah desert, where the landscapes evoke master paintings, there is a hike that is so feared but forgotten by many guides. Are you thinking about adventure, the beauty of the great outdoors? Let me reveal to you the dark underbelly of this enigmatic path, where each step could well turn into a deadly challenge. Rumor has it that guides, concerned about the safety of their clients, avoid taking groups there. But why ? Prepare to dive into the heart of this high-risk hike, where the allure of the sublime rubs shoulders with ever-present danger, and where beauty can quickly turn into tragedy.
An iconic but dangerous canyon
If you have never heard of Buckskin Gulch, you have probably seen it in a photo or video on social networks. This canyon is one of the longest and narrowest slot canyons from the southwestern United States, cut through orange Navajo sandstone. These spectacular geological formations attract hikers of the whole world. But this natural wonder hides many little-known dangers.
Some local guides, who make a living from accompanying visitors, sometimes refuse to take hikers to Buckskin Gulch due to unfavorable weather conditions. The area is indeed subject to significant risks of flash flooding.
Flash flood risks
In 2023, two hikers died during a flash flood in Buckskin Gulch. As the name suggests, a flash flood occurs with little or no notice, leaving those in its path little time to react before being swept away. In the case of this long and narrow canyon, the rapid rise in water is particularly deadly.
When a flood occurs and fills the depths of the canyon for kilometers, visitors find themselves trapped with no possibility of escape. Mitch Gouse, a hiker who discovered the body of a deceased man in Buckskin Gulch, described his experience: “Everything was a lot more intense than I expected…the water was very cold and it came up very quickly, I even had to swim at one point. It’s really scary.”
Is it safe to visit Buckskin Gulch?
Some hiking routes are known for their dangerousness, from the very long Pacific Crest Trail, where hikers have disappeared, Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon, where dehydration and exhaustion took their toll. Buckskin Gulch is distinguished by a different type of danger. Experience will not always help one survive – one of the hikers who died in 2023 had already crossed the canyon before. No amount of preparation and skill can guarantee safety when the canyon is flooded.
However, it is possible to minimize risks by closely monitoring weather conditions. Even if the sky appears clear, there may be thunderstorms near. Many local guides refuse to lead hikers to Buckskin Gulch if they detect any signs of bad weather. Changing plans at the last minute can be frustrating, but listening to their advice is crucial.
Preparing Tips for Hiking Buckskin Gulch
Here are some recommendations to prepare for a hike in Buckskin Gulch:
- Monitor the weather forecast carefully for any risk of sudden rain.
- Do not enter the canyon if there is a weather alert.
- Listen to the advice of local guides and don’t hesitate to cancel your hike if unfavorable conditions are forecast.
- Make sure your home is in order in case of an incident.
As Ed Smith, a hiker rescued from a flash flood in Buckskin Gulch, said, “You can’t control Mother Nature, but you can prepare as much as you can.”
