Home / Disasters and Accidents / First Fatal Fall Since Zion Permit System
First Fatal Fall Since Zion Permit System
21 Apr
Summary
- A Texas man died after falling from the Angels Landing trail.
- This is the first fall-related death since the permit system began.
- The park averages three deaths annually; 14 fell from Angels Landing since 2004.
A fatal fall occurred last week on Zion National Park's Angels Landing trail, marking the first such incident since the park introduced a permit system in 2022. Gilberto Ramos, 68, of Laredo, Texas, died after slipping near Big Bend. Rescue efforts led to temporary trail closures.
The Angels Landing trail, known for its strenuous 1,500-foot elevation gain over 5.4 miles, is highly popular, attracting approximately 200,000 hikers annually. This dangerous route, featuring a narrow rock spire and chain-assisted navigation, has recorded at least 14 falling deaths since 2004. The park itself averages around three deaths per year from various causes.
To manage crowds on the popular trail, Zion National Park implemented a lottery permit system in 2022. Park Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh stated the system aims to balance visitor access with safety and reduce congestion. The incident occurred during the park's centennial celebration of the Zion National Park Lodge.
