News Release Date: August 4, 2026
Contact: SEUG Public Affairs

MOAB, UT — As high temperatures continue, Arches and Canyonlands national parks urge visitors to prepare for extreme heat during summer visits. So far in 2026, park rangers have responded to 23 heat-related search and rescue incidents — 11 at Arches and 12 at Canyonlands — many of which could have been prevented.

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F/38°C. Combined with intense sunlight, low humidity, high elevation and limited shade, these conditions can quickly lead to dehydration and heat-related illness, even on short hikes. Visitors should plan activities during the cooler morning or evening hours, avoid strenuous activity between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., and adjust their plans based on weather conditions, personal fitness and the needs of everyone in their group.

To stay safe and make the most of their visit, park rangers strongly encourage visitors to:

  • Carry two to three liters of water per person for front-country hikes and at least four liters per person for backcountry travel. In Arches, drinking water is available at the visitor center and Devils Garden Campground. In Canyonlands, drinking water is available at Island in the Sky Visitor Center, The Needles Visitor Center, and The Needles Campground.
  • Drink regularly and turn around when half of the group’s water supply is gone.
  • Eat salty snacks to replace calories and electrolytes lost through sweating.
  • Wear sun protection, including lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and a hat.
  • Choose shorter hikes, scenic drives, ranger programs, or a visit to the visitor center when temperatures are high.
  • Rest frequently in shaded areas and avoid overexertion.
  • Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle.

Visitors should watch for signs of heat-related illness; including dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, confusion or excessive sweating. Anyone experiencing symptoms should stop activity, move to a cooler location, drink water and seek help. Call 911 if symptoms are severe or worsen.

Ahead of any trip, visitors are urged to check the weather forecast and current park conditions, and to build a flexible itinerary that can change with the day’s heat. Knowing the risks, preparing properly and being willing to turn back can mean the difference between a memorable vacation and a life-threatening emergency. Learn more about staying safe at Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

Source & Attribution

Originally published by National Park Service on August 4, 2026. Original author: National Park Service.

Public domain: original U.S. National Park Service government news release. Photograph: A group of hikers stop to hydrate along the Devils Garden Trail in Arches National Park NPS/Veronice Verdin Public domain: credited NPS government photograph.

No claim to original U.S. Government works.

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