I arrived during a rescue operation, and access was blocked to the lower trails. Actually, there are no "official" trails, although they appear to go everywhere- including right up to the cliff edges and down the steep embankment to the river. There are signs everywhere warning you of the dangers, but to no avail.
I was paying a surprise visit to my daughter (who works there), but she was assisting in the rescue, so I had to wait til it was over. Looked to be a pretty technical affair, as the accident happened just below "Castle Rock", a rock formation just above the falls. From there it was a rocky, difficult route back up the river to the waiting chopper. The rescue team did a great job, stopping often to survey the best route. (The patient was conscious, and at one point waved to the crowds that were lining the rim.)
Read the signs! Between the Park Ranger, the Sheriff, several emergency vehicles, a Rescue Team from Pasco, a helicopter ride, and a hospital visit; it's gonna be a heckuva bill!
Please be careful on your visit. I saw many careless and unprepared people while I was there. The unofficial trails lead right up to the cliff edge; a several hundred feet drop. The soil is loose and sandy, the volcanic rock fractured- a recipe for disaster. Heading down to the river in flipflops and no water is foolhardy. Park personnel have limited authority to keep you from being stupid, so you're on your own...
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