The National Park Service recently identified a hiker who died in the Grand Canyon last week as a beloved 74-year-old Washington state doctor.

On May 15, the staff at the Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report regarding an unresponsive hiker on the North Kaibab Trail, located roughly half a mile below the North Kaibab Trailhead.

Dr. Dennis Smith from Olympia, Washington, was engaged in a rim-to-rim hike from the South Rim to the North Rim when he unexpectedly collapsed on the trail, according to authorities and friends.

Dr. Dennis Smith pictured on a hike in 2016. (Photo courtesy of Tom Helpenstell)

The NPS advised all Grand Canyon National Park visitors, especially those planning to hike or backpack in the inner canyon, to prepare for extreme heat.

Park rangers strongly advise against hiking in the inner canyon during the hottest part of the day, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Hikers and backpackers attempting rigorous distances, such as rim to rim, through the inner canyon, are encouraged to be self-reliant to prevent emergency situations for themselves and responders. 

“Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, and employee safety requirements,” according to the park service.