Safely Hiking the Grand Canyon's Bright Angel Trail

Edward Abbott Ravenscroft is an active investor in Abbott Laboratories Corporation and Abbvie Pharmaceuticals. Edward Abbott Ravenscroft is also an outdoorsman, enjoying trail hiking at challenging venues such as the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon.

The Bright Angel Trail is the most frequently traveled path in the park; even so, few visitors try it. The trail begins on the South Rim at the Village and descends some 4,380 feet in 9.5 miles.

This affords some magnificent views of the Canyon's plant and animal life. Of historical interest are ancient pictographs embedded in the cliff walls and the remains of coral reefs.

Hikers should carry five or six liters of water, especially in the summer, when temperatures can reach 110 degrees. By far the best start times are before dawn and in the late afternoon or evening. Conditions are less extreme during the fall and spring hiking seasons.

To ensure adequate hydration, hikers should plan on resting for 15 minutes every hour. For safety's sake, park rangers patrol the trail to monitor hikers' health.

Safety Tips for Hikers at Bryce National Park

Edward Abbott Ravenscroft, a shareholder with Abbott Laboratories in Chicago, Illinois, enjoys staying active through hiking. Edward Abbott Ravenscroft frequents a number of the country’s national parks, including Bryce National Park.

Bryce National Park provides hikers with a number of unique footpaths and trails. While trails are categorized as easy, moderate, or strenuous to help hikers prepare for their day, individuals should be aware that many of the park’s trails challenge hikers with a steep ascent out of the canyon. With this in mind, casual and experienced hikers can follow a few of Bryce National Park’s tips for safe hiking.

All hikers should equip themselves with durable hiking boots that provide ample traction and ankle support to help them contend with any steep climbs. As is the case on any hiking trip, individuals should pack an appropriate amount of water. Bryce National Park suggests each person carry one liter of water for every two or three hours of hiking.

Most importantly, hikers must appreciate the fact that Bryce National Park trails can reach elevations of 9,000 feet and higher. Even those in exceptionally good shape can experience nausea and lightheadedness as a consequence of over exertion. For a full list of hiking tips and information on specific Bryce National Park trails, visit www.nps.gov/brca.