55-year-old Indian American hiker dies on Grand Canyon hike

Ranjith Varma, a 55-year-old Indian American hiker from Manassas, Virginia passed out and died Saturday while attempting a gruelling 24-mile Rim-to-Rim hike at the Grand Canyon in a single day.

Varma, who worked at the International Monetary Fund for 20 years, died shortly after first responders received a call around 2 pm of a hiker in distress on the North Kaibab Trail, officials said.

He was attempting to travel from the South Rim to the North Rim inside the Arizona part of the expansive national park.

Varma became unresponsive about one mile south of Cottonwood Campground after the emergency call was made, and bystanders started administering CPR, the National Park Service said in a news release.

Rescuers reached Varma by helicopter, with specialized maneuvers needed to allow rangers to provide advance life support efforts, the agency said.

“Attempts to resuscitate the hiker were unsuccessful,” the NPS said. He died closer to the North Rim, where he was hoping to conclude his hike.

An investigation into the incident is being conducted by the NPS in coordination with the Coconino County Medical Examiner, the agency said.

Varma is survived by his wife Bindu; his children Varun and Nikhil; his mother Sneha Prabha; his brother Santhosh; his sister Deepa; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends

Varma’s family is hosting a Viewing & Memorial Service to honor his memory and celebrate his life at Pierce Funeral Homes, 9609 Center St, Manassas, Virginia on Sep 17 from 9 am to 12 noon.

“Ranjith was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend who touched many lives with his kindness, humor, and generosity. He was a treasured colleague at the International Monetary Fund where he worked for over 20 years,” the memorial service notice stated.

“He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, playing cricket, gardening, or cooking up spicy delicacies.

“As an avid hiker, nature enthusiast, and a dedicated mentor to young scouts, his unparalleled spirit of adventure took him to many places. His courage and passion for life was an inspiration to all who knew him,” it added.

In the summer, temperatures on exposed parts of the trail can reach over 120°F in the shade, NPS noted strongly advising against hiking in the inner canyon during the heat of the day between 10 am and 4 pm.

“Be aware that efforts to assist hikers may be delayed during the summer months due to limited staff, the number of rescue calls, employee safety requirements, and limited helicopter flying capability during periods of extreme heat or inclement weather.”

“There’s no question about it, the Rim-to-Rim hike in Grand Canyon National Park is a classic bucket list adventure,” the National Park Foundation advised. “But it’s no stroll through the park, that’s for sure.”