Yosemite National Park, a natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors each year, is also the site of a significant number of deaths. According to the National Park Service, there have been approximately 1,300 deaths within the park’s boundaries since its establishment in 1890, with an average of 12 to 15 deaths per year.
The Leading Causes of Yosemite National Park Deaths
A study conducted by R & S Injury Law analyzed deaths in Yosemite National Park between 2007 and 2023, revealing the following as the leading causes:
| Cause of Death | Number of Deaths |
|---|---|
| Falls | 53 |
| Natural Death | 33 |
| Drowning | 21 |
| Undetermined | 15 |
| Motor Vehicle Crashes | 10 |
| Suicide | 9 |
| Environmental | 6 |
| Natural/Environmental | 5 |
| Other | 3 |
| Medical | 2 |
| Not Reported | 2 |
| Poisoning | 2 |
| Other Specified | 1 |
| Other Transport Crash | 1 |
The park’s unique terrain and features, such as steep cliff sides, roaring waterfalls, and wildlife, contribute to the high number of deaths. Notable incidents include an 18-year-old visitor who plunged nearly 600 feet from Nevada Falls in 2018 while attempting to duplicate an Instagram photo, and a married couple who fell about 800 feet to their deaths at Taft Point in 2018 while taking a selfie at a popular overlook spot.
Yosemite National Park’s Deadliest Years
In 2022, 204 people died in national parks across the United States, with the deadliest years being 2017 and 2019, when 320 people died across two dozen national park sites. The leading cause of death, after “not reported,” was motor vehicle crashes, which were responsible for 37 deaths across more than two dozen national park sites.
Challenges in Tracking Yosemite National Park Deaths
The exact number of deaths in Yosemite National Park is not precisely tracked due to the lack of a complete data set. The National Park Service and other organizations rely on various sources, including news reports and incident reports, to compile the available information.
Visitor Safety Considerations
While Yosemite National Park offers breathtaking views and a variety of recreational activities, visitors must exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks associated with the park’s features. Proper planning, preparation, and adherence to safety guidelines can help mitigate the risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Yosemite National Park’s natural beauty and allure are undeniable, but the tragic toll of deaths within its boundaries serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks of exploring such a rugged and unforgiving landscape. By understanding the leading causes of these incidents and taking appropriate safety measures, visitors can better appreciate the park’s wonders while minimizing the potential for harm.
References:
– Yosemite National Park Incidents
– Fatalities in Yosemite National Park
– Deaths in Yosemite National Park
– Deaths in Yosemite National Park (R & S Injury Law)
– National Park Deaths