Date of Event: 11/2/2018
Canyon involved: Styx
Region: Death Valley National Park, California
Country: United States
Submitted by: Sarah Perlotto
Source: Canyon Collective
Injuries: Abrasion or Laceration
Cause: Anchor error, anchor failure, no backup
Description of Event: Canyoneering group approached a two-stage 20’/15′ rappel and inspected an existing anchor, a boulder partially buried in gravel used as a “horn” anchor. The group determined the anchor to be good enough to use despite apparently UV-damaged webbing and “confidence” rocks placed over the webbing next to the anchor. No backup meat anchor was used. The first rappel was without incident, but during the second stage of the second rappel, the webbing failed and the canyoneer fell about 12′. The webbing had broken “on an exposed side of the boulder that did not have rocks on it.” She landed on her side and had the wind knocked out of her, and sustained minor injuries (bruising and soreness around right chest/shoulder, left arm, right jaw/eye). The canyoneer was able to continue and complete the canyon.
Analysis: Thorough inspection of anchors is crucial, and UV damaged/sun faded webbing should not be trusted. When in doubt, replace or rebuild the anchor. Always back up marginal anchors. Apply the same level of attention to safety on short rappels as you do with longer ones.