Our thoughts go out to this rider's family and friends. The Moab Sun News reports that on the afternoon of March 28, an OHV rider on the Poison Spider Trail began feeling unwell and tried to return to a nearby campsite before the situation became a serious medical emergency.

What happened

  • A distress signal was sent, and Grand County EMS, Grand County Search and Rescue and a medical helicopter responded
  • A medically trained passerby stopped and gave first aid while help was on the way
  • The rider died on scene despite care from the passerby, EMS and the flight crew
  • Search and Rescue noted mobile phone coverage is spotty at best in that area

Search and Rescue wrote that heading into the backcountry in poor health can add to the stressors of desert recreation, and that "sometimes unknown health conditions can be revealed while recreating."

What we take from it

Poison Spider is a long, demanding day, and help can be a long way off. Before any big trail day:

  • Be honest with yourself and your group about how you are feeling, and speak up early if something seems off
  • Carry a satellite messenger or other way to call for help where phones don't work
  • Pack a real first aid kit, plenty of water and any medications you need
  • Never run remote trails alone

On our trips we keep an eye on everyone, not just the Jeeps, and we would always rather cut a day short than push through a bad feeling.