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Accident Database: Accident #289

River: Colorado
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, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal, Fatal
Age: 51
Experienced/Inexperienced: Experienced
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: High Water
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