Cyclist runs out of water in 102-degree heat and dies on Colorado trail, police say

A 52-year-old cyclist died on a mountain biking trail after running out of water in triple-digit heat, Colorado officials said.

The Colorado Springs man was riding on the 32-mile Palisade Plunge trail on Saturday, June 11, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office said. He was alone and ran out of water as the temperature reached 102.

Three other cyclists rushed to help him and called 911. They said he was “suffering from a heat-related illness” 28 miles into the trail, deputies said.

“The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, Mesa County Search and Rescue, Palisade Fire Department, and Careflight’s helicopter immediately responded to the remote area and began life-saving measures,” deputies said in a news release. “The person did not survive.”

The cyclists who tried to help the man had also run out of water. They each started with a gallon of water, but about 10 miles before the end of the trail, all of it was gone.

“They were rescued and treated for dehydration,” deputies said.

Officials did not publicly disclose the man’s identity. A manner of death will be determined by the coroner’s office.

“Strenuous activity during extreme heat is strongly discouraged,” deputies said. “Community members are advised to limit outdoor activities to the early morning hours.”

Beating the heat

If people choose to hike or be outdoors in dangerously hot temperatures, officials recommend the following tips:

• Carry and drink plenty of water and plan to replenish electrolytes

• Eat twice as much food as normal and have salty foods on hand

• Carry a first-aid kit

• Pack essentials only

• Bring a flashlight with spare batteries to hike during the cool evening

• Spray yourself with water to cool down

• Have a hat and sunscreen as protection from the sun

• Have a whistle or signal for emergency use

• Wear waterproof clothing