A tragic incident occurred in Death Valley when a determined hiker, Steve Curry, passed away after completing his hike despite scorching temperatures reaching nearly 120 degrees. The 71-year-old Sunland resident successfully finished his round-trip hike from Golden Canyon to Zabriskie Point, which spans about 6 miles. However, as he reached the trailhead’s restroom, Curry collapsed and was unable to be revived by park rangers who responded to a 911 call within minutes. The extreme heat prevented a medical helicopter from providing assistance, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Although an official cause of death has not been determined by the Inyo County coroner, it is believed that the intense heat played a major role. The temperature at Furnace Creek on July 18, the day of the incident, reached a staggering 121 degrees. The walls of Golden Canyon intensified the heat, making it even more unbearable for hikers like Curry.
Earlier in the day, Curry had a conversation with Francine Orr from the Los Angeles Times, where he shared his experience and determination to complete the hike. Orr captured a photo of Curry applying sunscreen and seeking refuge under an interpretive sign at Zabriskie Point. Despite offers from others to assist him on the return journey, Curry declined. Unfortunately, this tragedy occurred just two weeks after the death of a 65-year-old man from San Diego who perished due to extreme heat while driving on the park’s North Highway.
Curry’s wife revealed to the Los Angeles Times that he was a retired electrician with a passion for hiking. She had tried to discourage him from venturing into Death Valley during such sweltering conditions, but Curry did not disclose his destination when he departed for what she assumed would be a day trip on July 17.
For the safety of summer visitors, Death Valley rangers strongly advise completing hikes in the park’s lower elevations prior to 10 a.m. This cautionary information is prominently displayed on a sign at the entrance of Golden Canyon.
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