DEAD MEN HIKING: CASE STUDIES FROM THE AMERICAN WILDERNESS

Abstract

Hiking is a popular outdoor sport activity and one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in the United States. Compared to other activities such as mountain climbing and rock climbing, the risks associated with hiking are perceived as minimal. However, as participation has increased, the research literature has started to document an increasing number of hiking related injuries and illnesses. The case reports in this study identify the factors that contribute to the death of four hikers in different regions of the American wilderness. Environmental factors and factors related to acute bad judgment syndrome played a major role in the death of all four hikers. Understanding these factors and overcoming the false perception of hiking risks is key to the future prevention of hiking fatalities.