A tourist in Utah bit off more than he could chew after jumping on a hoodoo towering over Long Canyon.
The result of the leap, captured in a series of photos shared by Instagram account TouronsofYellowstone (@touronsofyellowstone), left the man stranded with an ankle injury and a sharp drop on all sides.
The post's caption, taken from a Fox 13 report, explains the precarious situation:
"Utah search and rescue crews put their lives on the line to help those who bite off a little more than they can chew. Grand County Emergency Medical Services performed an incredible rescue after a man was stranded on a hoodoo towering ... over the canyon below.
"EMS teams, along with Grand County Search and Rescue, were called to Pucker Pass in Long Canyon after a male nursing an injured ankle was unable to get off the hoodoo with a sharp, catastrophic drop on all sides."
This incident serves as a reminder that visiting beautiful landscapes should lead to a greater understanding and respect for our natural world, not the abuse of it. Actions like this imply an exploitative relationship with nature and inhibit the connection many individuals experience with the great outdoors.
Watching these events unfold is stressful for bystanders and park rangers whose job is to protect the ecosystem — and who rescued the stuntman.
Thankfully, there were no animals involved in this stunt. When animals are involved, such incidents endanger wildlife, as animals that injure humans, provoked or unprovoked, may face euthanasia.
Commenters were quick to react to the tourist's predicament.
One suggested, "Throw him a bottle of water and let him think about his choices for a day or two."
Another quipped: "Play stupid games, win stupid prizes. Hope he has to pay for the rescue."
As we continue to explore and enjoy the great outdoors, remember that our actions have consequences. By respecting nature and making responsible choices, we can protect these incredible landscapes for generations to come.
Editor's note: A previous version of this article said "Grand Canyon" when "Grand County" was intended. We regret the error.
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