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A tragic incident at Zion National Park has claimed the life of Gilberto Ramos, a 68-year-old resident of Laredo, Texas, as confirmed by the National Park Service on Monday.
The accident occurred on Friday, April 17, around 2 p.m. local time in Utah. Reports indicated that a hiker had fallen from the well-known chained section of the Angels Landing trail. This trail is notorious for its steep, narrow ridge line and dramatic drop-offs, making it a popular yet challenging route for adventurers.
Upon receiving the distress call, park rangers and local law enforcement swiftly arrived at the site. They discovered Ramos’ body on the north side of Angels Landing in Zion Canyon, close to Big Bend. The recovery operation concluded later that evening, after which his remains were handed over to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner for further examination.
A tragic fall occurred at Zion National Park, resulting in a fatality. (Michael Yanow/NurPhoto)
On Monday, both the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the state medical examiner officially identified the deceased as Gilberto Ramos.
In the immediate aftermath of the incident, officials temporarily closed the West Rim Trail, including Scout Lookout and Angels Landing, during response and recovery efforts.
A hiker who died after falling from a chained-off section of Angels Landing at Zion National Park was identified as 68-year-old Gilberto Ramos of Laredo, Texas. (Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)
The National Park Service (NPS) and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fall.
Angels Landing is closed from April 20 through April 23 for trail maintenance, according to NPS. No permits will be issued during those dates. The park said the day-before lottery will reopen April 23 for hikes scheduled April 24.
Angel’s Landing at Zion National Park has a narrow ridge line and a steep dropoff. (Kayla Bartkowski)
While Angels Landing is closed, the broader West Rim Trail is currently open.