While national parks are home to some of the most stunning views of pristine wilderness that the United States has to offer, there are also countless dangers (in some cases, even fatal) that can await travelers who ignore safety warnings or go astray. accidentally off the road. .
In early June, an 83-year-old woman visiting Yellowstone National Park from South Carolina was gored by a bison that snuck up behind her and “lifted her about a foot off the ground with its horns.”
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Amid several incidents in which visitors waded into streams they thought looked gentle and became trapped in the current over the past month, Sequoia National Park in central California sent out a “river safety advisory” urging Visitors to use caution before entering.
That river may look refreshing, but watch out for “fast-moving water and slippery granite rocks,” NPS says.
“As the summer season intensifies, park officials advise visitors to use increased caution around the park's rivers due to hazardous conditions,” the National Park Service (NPS) wrote in a statement sent on 1 of June. “Recent incidents have highlighted the dangers present in these areas. In the last week alone, two rapid water rescues have already occurred in the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River. Park officials emphasize the importance of staying away from rivers, which present risks important, specifically because of the fast-moving waters and slippery granite rocks.”
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In both incidents, visitors who considered themselves experienced swimmers were swept away by fast-moving water. While park rangers pulled both people out of the water to safety, the NPS issued the advisory out of concern that such situations will become more common as summer progresses and visitors turn to any stream they encounter during a hike. like a breath. of heat.
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Headed to Sequoia National Park this summer? Here are some best places to swim.
While swimming is not prohibited, the official advice is to “stay away from rivers” as those in Sequoia have “strong currents” and “extremely slippery rocks” that can pose a slipping hazard even for someone simply standing there. to look. Lakes like Sequoia, Pear, Hume and Heather are better suited for swimming, while the Paradise Creek Trailhead is a two-mile hike that ends at natural pools and waterfalls where one can take a dip. Since there are no parking spaces and the area is only accessible by hiking, many visitors love the chance to swim in the remote wilderness.
For an area with more amenities, such as restrooms and parking, there is also the Hume Lake Day Use Area. It attracts both swimmers and those looking to practice water sports and is by far the largest and most popular swimming area in the park.
“We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience at Sequoia National Park,” Chief Deputy Ranger Dave Fox said in a statement. “By staying out of rivers and maintaining a safe distance from the shore, visitors can avoid life-threatening accidents and ensure a fun visit for everyone.”
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