Mountain biker falls 60 feet from prohibited ‘slickrock off-road’ in Zion National Park

A man was mountain biking on a prohibited off-road path when he plunged 60 feet, officials said.

The 19-year-old was on a “slickrock off-road” in Zion National Park when he fell, a park official told McClatchy News. Bikers are only allowed to ride on roads and the Pa’rus Trail within the Utah park.

“The rider fell about 60 feet and suffered multiple compound fractures,” officials said in an email. “National Park Service staff including park rangers, EMTs, and a paramedic responded.”

The man was flown in a life flight helicopter to a hospital in St. George. Officials did not disclose his condition at the time.

Biking is a popular activity among Zion tourists. It’s permitted on all park roads, but tralis and off-trail routes are closed to bikers.

“Bicycles must ride single file on the right side of park roads and the Parus Trail,” park officials said. “Please wear your helmet!”

This story was originally published August 5, 2022 at 12:50 PM with the headline "Mountain biker falls 60 feet from prohibited ‘slickrock off-road’ in Zion National Park."