Accident Database: Accident #289

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River:	Colorado
Reach #:	Colorado [UT] 10. Moab to Powell Reservoir (Cataract Canyon) I-IV low 00h44m [detail]
Section:	4. Moab to Powell Reservoir (Cataract Canyon)
Gauge:	65,000 cfs
Water Level:	High
Difficulty:	I
Accident Code(s):	Long Swim (L.S.)
Injury Code(s):	Fatal
Age:	51
Experienced/Inexperienced:	Extensive Experience
Years Paddling:	>10
Private/Commercial:	Private
Boat Type:	Other
Boat Model:	River Swimmer
Number of Occupants:	1
Number in Group:	1
Number of Victims:	1
Hazard Codes:	Blast rock, Low Head Dam, High Water, Hydraulic/Keeper Hole, Man-made Debris Strainer, Pin/Broach, Rocks that cause blunt trauma, Natural Strainer or Sieve, Water Temp, Waterfall
Detailed Description:	SWIMMER OVERWHELMED IN CATARACT CANYON Colorado River near , UT: June 3, 1993 Gradient 25 fpm; Volume 65,000 cfs(high); Classification V DESCRIPTION: Cataract Canyon at 67,000 cfs is huge, unforgiving whitewater. Stanley Hollister, 51, was a veteran outdoorsman and long-time Grand Canyon guide, in excellent physical condition. He had swum Cataract Canyon in high water ten years earlier. He was wearing two farmer john wetsuits, a diver's top, swim fins, and a PFD. At lunchtime on June 3 he had lunch with a commercial party. The tripleader, who Hollister had trained on the Grand Canyon , suggested that he board a raft for the biggest drops. Hollister refused the offer. He was found floating face down below Rapid 24 by Park Service personnel on routine patrol. SOURCE: National Park Service; Maxine Dunkelman; NORS Currents
Conclusions:	ANALYSIS: River swimming in huge Class V water is very risky, even for well prepared, skilled individuals. The solo attempt left no margin for error.
Report Status:	Completed

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