5 Essential Facts About Justin Bingham's Tragic Fall At Zion National Park And His Lasting Legacy
The tragic death of Justin Bingham at Zion National Park remains a poignant reminder of the inherent dangers of extreme outdoor recreation, even for experienced adventurers. As of December 2025, the details surrounding the fatal canyoneering accident that claimed the life of the 40-year-old tech CEO and father of four are still frequently revisited, not just as a cautionary tale, but as a testament to the vibrant life he led. His passing, which occurred on October 5th, 2019, shocked the Utah business community and the online family vlogging world, leaving behind a profound legacy of leadership, faith, and adventure.
This comprehensive article delves into the full story, providing a detailed biography of Justin Bingham, a step-by-step account of the accident near Heaps Canyon, and an exploration of the enduring impact he had on his family, his company Opiniion, and the broader community. The goal is to honor his memory by presenting the facts and celebrating the life of a man who was fiercely loyal and deeply involved in everything he pursued.
Justin Douglas Bingham: A Full Biography and Professional Profile
Justin Douglas Bingham was a man of many titles: a devoted husband, a father of four, a successful tech executive, and a passionate athlete. His life was characterized by an energetic pursuit of excellence in both his personal and professional spheres. He was a prominent figure in Utah, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to his family.
- Full Name: Justin Douglas Bingham
- Age at Death: 40 years old
- Date of Incident: October 5, 2019
- Location of Incident: Near Heaps Canyon, Zion National Park, Utah
- Cause of Death: Accidental fall during canyoneering/rappelling
- Professional Role: CEO of Opiniion, a Lindon, Utah-based software company specializing in resident feedback technology for the property management industry.
- Athletic Background: Former track and field sprinter for Brigham Young University (BYU).
- Family Life & Online Presence: Devoted husband and father of four children. He was also a family social media influencer, known for his family's vlogging channel, "Our Life in Holland."
- Community Involvement: Remembered for his leadership, faith, and strong community ties in the Utah County area.
Bingham’s professional success with Opiniion was a highlight of his career, where he was celebrated for his visionary leadership and ability to foster a positive company culture. His personal life, often shared through his family’s vlogs, painted a picture of a man dedicated to creating memorable experiences for his children and instilling a love for adventure.
The Tragic Accident at Zion National Park: Details of the Fall
The accident that claimed Justin Bingham’s life occurred during a routine, yet inherently high-risk, canyoneering trip in one of Zion National Park’s most demanding areas. Canyoneering is a technical sport that involves navigating canyons using a variety of techniques, including hiking, scrambling, swimming, and, critically, rappelling.
On the evening of Saturday, October 5, 2019, Bingham was canyoneering with three other individuals near the exit of Heaps Canyon. Heaps Canyon is a notoriously difficult and long route, often requiring multiple rappels, including the famous and massive "Big Drop" into the Great White Throne area, and is considered one of the park's most serious challenges.
The incident took place around 6:00 p.m. As the group was navigating the challenging terrain, Bingham reportedly slipped and fell. The National Park Service (NPS) confirmed that he fell an approximate distance of 150 to 200 feet. The sheer height of the fall in the rugged, unforgiving environment of the canyon made survival impossible.
Park officials were alerted to the situation, and search and rescue operations were quickly initiated. Due to the remote and difficult location of the accident, the recovery of his body was a complex and somber operation. The NPS later released a statement confirming the death was an accidental fall, a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the wilderness and the importance of stringent safety protocols during high-risk activities like rappelling and technical canyoneering.
A Legacy of Leadership, Adventure, and Love
While the circumstances of his death are heartbreaking, the narrative surrounding Justin Bingham has consistently focused on the vibrant life he lived and the positive impact he left behind. His legacy extends across several key areas, demonstrating a man who successfully balanced a demanding professional career with a deep personal commitment to his family and his passions.
The Opiniion CEO and Tech Innovator
As the CEO of Opiniion, Bingham was instrumental in the growth of the software company. His colleagues and employees remembered him as a dynamic and inspiring leader who fostered a culture of innovation and collaboration. The company’s success in the competitive tech startup world is a testament to his vision and dedication. His leadership style emphasized not just business metrics but also the well-being and development of his team.
The Adventurer and Athlete
Bingham's former life as a BYU track and field sprinter speaks to his lifelong passion for physical challenge and adventure. Canyoneering in places like Zion National Park was a natural extension of this adventurous spirit. He was known to embrace the outdoors, seeking out technical and challenging routes that required skill, courage, and preparation. This aspect of his life serves as an inspiration to many in the outdoor community, even as his death highlights the risks involved.
The Devoted Family Man and Vlogger
Perhaps the most public aspect of his life was his role as a devoted husband and father. Through the family's vlogging channel, "Our Life in Holland," thousands of followers were given a glimpse into the joyful and active life he shared with his wife and four children. Following the tragedy, the outpouring of grief and support from the online community was immense, reflecting the genuine connection he had forged with his audience. His family remembered him as "a fiercely loyal, involved, and loving father and husband," whose greatest joy was spending time with his loved ones.
The enduring message from the life and death of Justin Bingham is one of living fully and pursuing passions, but also one that underscores the critical need for safety and caution in the wilderness. His story is a powerful reminder that even the most prepared and experienced individuals can fall victim to the unpredictable forces of nature in places as beautiful and treacherous as Zion National Park.
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