‘It’s a beautiful hike when you stay on the path’ — Officials urge caution around Bridal Veil Falls

PROVO CANYON, Utah (ABC4) — After a 15-year-old fell 30 feet in the Bridal Veil Falls area on Wednesday, June 25, officials are stressing the importance of safety when visiting the popular hiking destination.

North Fork Fire District Chief Dave Marsella says each summer, Fire & Emergency Services respond to approximately 20 emergency calls from Bridal Veil Falls. These rescues are a random mix of local and foreign travelers.

The paved trail is rated as easy, but problems arise when people venture off the path, Marsella told ABC4.com.

“If you’re going to go off the beaten path, keep in mind, you’re still hiking,” he added. Familiarity with the hike does not ensure safety.

The terrain off-trail can be dangerous as rocks are slick and unstable and it’s imperative hikers look above for falling objects that other people might knock down.

Marsella advised that it is important to be prepared like bringing food, water, and a fully charged cellphone while going on the hike. The canyon has cellphone service, allowing for a quicker emergency response.

Staying safe around water

While the cool water may be tempting on a hot day, officials say the water can be dangerously cold. Hypothermia is a common occurrence among these emergency calls.

“That’s where they get hurt — in the water,” Marsella explained. If someone slips in the water, it could take up to 45 minutes for help to arrive, increasing the risk of hypothermia.

“We have issues all the way up the canyon, just (with) people who are ill prepared to be up there,” he added.

Chief Marsella concluded with this reminder, “It’s a beautiful hike when you stay on the path, but just remember you’re still out in the wilderness. Plan accordingly. Have some food, have some water. Have the right footwear on. Have a charged cellphone. Go with a friend, don’t go by yourself. And think about every time you go up, you have to come back down.”