An 83-year-old man who went missing while hiking near the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park was located and rescued after an extensive search effort lasting nearly two days, officials reported. Gerald Guinn, a resident of Kanab, Utah, was found on July 22 approximately 2.5 miles from where he was last seen, following an overnight search involving multiple agencies.
According to the Kane County Sheriff’s Office and the National Park Service, Guinn and another hiker began a short excursion around 12:30 p.m. on July 21 in a remote area along the boundary of Grand Canyon National Park and the Kaibab National Forest. The two intentionally separated while looking for a nearby historic landmark; the companion located the site but Guinn did not return. After several hours without contact, the companion alerted authorities.
Search and rescue operations commenced that evening, deploying a range of resources including ground teams, drones equipped with forward-looking infrared technology, and search dogs. Despite thorough efforts, Guinn was not immediately located. The National Park Service took command of the search on July 22, incorporating helicopter reconnaissance flights and additional ground personnel. A cell phone ping helped narrow the search area eastward.
A National Park Service helicopter eventually spotted Guinn signaling to rescuers from below. Due to the challenging and steep terrain, the helicopter was unable to land. A Kane County Search and Rescue team then hiked approximately 1.5 miles to Guinn’s location. Rescuers found him cold and unable to walk but alert and in "good spirits," according to officials. They provided him with warm clothing and fluids while assessing evacuation options.
As night fell, conditions were deemed unsafe for aerial evacuation. Instead, a paramedic was lowered to the site, and a team of about 20 rescuers carried Guinn to safety, navigating obstacles such as fallen logs and marking potential hazards. The operation concluded around 1:30 a.m. on July 23, when the group reached a nearby roadway.
Emergency medical personnel evaluated Guinn upon rescue and cleared him for release. The cooperative search effort involved Grand Canyon National Park personnel, Kane County Search and Rescue, Coconino County Search and Rescue, and other local agencies. Officials praised the collaborative response and emphasized the importance of preparedness and caution when hiking in remote and rugged areas.