Iowa woman dies after collapsing at Colorado National Monument during hot day

DENVER (KDVR) — An Iowa woman died after she collapsed at Colorado National Monument on a day when temperatures exceeded 90 degrees.

The National Park Service said on June 10 at 2:27 p.m., staff at the park received a report about a hiker who collapsed and lost consciousness 2 miles up the Lower Monument Canyon Trail.

According to the park service, family and first responders attempted CPR, but the life-saving efforts were unsuccessful. Marsha Cook, 54, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was pronounced dead on scene.

“Colorado National Monument staff would like to extend their condolences to the hiker’s family and friends. Staff also would like to express gratitude to partners at Lower Valley Fire, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Classic Air, the Mesa County Coroner’s Office, and the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office Victim Assistance Program,” said the National Park Service.

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While the Mesa County Coroner’s Office still needs to investigate the cause and manner of death, Colorado National Monument staff have a warning about hiking in the hot heat.

Daytime temperatures at the monument exceeded 90 degrees this week, staff said. Hiking in hot weather can lead to heat exhaustion and stroke. Hikers should plan to hike in the early morning or late afternoon when the heat isn’t as severe.

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