A 29-year-old woman, Astrid Angelina Madrid Ticas, tragically died after falling 75 to 100 feet from Big Bradley Falls in North Carolina, marking the second fatal waterfall accident in the state within a week and raising urgent concerns about trail safety and the hidden dangers of these popular hiking spots.

 

29-Year-Old Hiker Dies at a North Carolina Waterfall After Falling 75-100  Feet, Second Fall-Related Death in a Week

 

A peaceful weekend hike in the North Carolina mountains turned into a heartbreaking tragedy when 29-year-old Astrid Angelina Madrid Ticas lost her life after falling nearly 100 feet from Big Bradley Falls in Saluda.

The fatal incident, which occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, marks the second waterfall-related death in the state within just one week, raising growing concerns about safety at popular hiking and climbing destinations.

Ticas, an avid hiker originally from the Central American region but believed to be living in the U.S., was exploring the Big Bradley Falls Trail, a scenic yet notoriously challenging path in Polk County.

The trail leads to the dramatic 75-foot-tall Big Bradley Falls, a site known for its breathtaking views and slippery, hazardous terrain. Authorities confirmed she fell an estimated 75 to 100 feet into the gorge below.

Emergency services received a 911 call at approximately 1:30 p.m., prompting a coordinated response from multiple agencies including Saluda Fire and Rescue, Mill Spring Fire Department, Polk County EMS, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

 

Hiker dies after falling down 75-foot waterfall in North Carolina

 

First responders rushed to the scene at 4960 Holbert Cove Road, the trailhead for Big Bradley Falls, but tragically, Ticas had succumbed to her injuries before she could be rescued.

Recovery teams worked under dangerous conditions to retrieve her body. Officials noted that the area where the fall occurred is known for its steep drop-offs and slippery rocks, especially after recent rains which may have made the terrain even more unstable.

In a statement released the following day, Polk County officials expressed their condolences: “As a community, Polk County extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Ms.

Ticas during this difficult time.” They also issued a renewed warning to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, urging caution when visiting natural attractions, especially those that include elevated trails or require navigating near waterfall edges.

 

North Carolina hiker dies falling from waterfall

 

No further details have been released about the circumstances leading to Ticas’ fall. It remains unclear whether she was hiking alone or in a group, and authorities have not indicated whether weather or trail conditions played a direct role in the accident.

However, this latest incident adds to a growing list of fatalities at Big Bradley Falls and other high-risk natural sites in the state.

There have been multiple deaths and rescues reported in the past decade at this very location, prompting repeated calls for stricter trail safety measures and better signage.

Just a week earlier, on July 6, another outdoor tragedy unfolded in western North Carolina when 25-year-old Yoseph Alabdulwahab died during a rappelling incident at Steele Creek Falls in Pisgah National Forest.

Emergency responders from Burke County were dispatched to the remote waterfall after a distress call indicated that a climber had fallen and possibly drowned.

While bystanders attempted CPR, the technical rescue team was delayed due to the extremely rugged terrain. When they finally reached the victim nearly an hour later, Alabdulwahab was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

Hiker dies after falling off waterfall outlook in North Carolina | North  Carolina | The Guardian

 

Both incidents are a sobering reminder of the hidden dangers that accompany North Carolina’s picturesque wilderness.

Despite their beauty, waterfalls and mountain trails can pose lethal risks, especially to those who venture too close to edges, overestimate their experience level, or ignore posted warnings.

Big Bradley Falls in particular has long been a concern for local authorities. The trail is not officially maintained by the state, and many parts of it lack railings or secure footing, making it especially dangerous for inexperienced hikers or those unprepared for treacherous conditions.

In the aftermath of these back-to-back fatalities, safety advocates are once again urging for improved infrastructure, more ranger presence, and increased public awareness.

Some hiking groups have begun organizing informational campaigns and group outings with experienced guides to help prevent future tragedies.

 

Tragic fall claims life of young woman at Big Bradley Falls

 

Friends and family of Astrid Ticas have not yet made a public statement, but her death has sparked grief among local hiking communities and on social media, where many have shared photos and memories of her adventurous spirit and love for nature.

For many, her story is a painful reminder that even the most serene landscapes can turn deadly in a matter of moments.

As summer temperatures continue to draw visitors to the mountains and forests of North Carolina, officials are pleading with the public to stay on marked paths, travel in groups, and never underestimate the risk posed by high cliffs and fast-moving water.

For now, Polk County mourns the loss of yet another life at one of its most scenic—but perilous—landmarks.