USA Wilderness Climbing Protected by Law
- Friday 20th December 2024
The Protecting America's Rock Climbing Act (PARC) just passed Congress, and yesterday the National Park Service withdrew its proposal to prohibit fixed anchors in Wilderness areas. These two monumental victories protect America’s historic climbing legacy.
At a time when access for climbing is often under threat, the news from the US is very encouraging. The PARC Act will:
- Safeguard sustainable climbing access in Wilderness areas
- Clarify that fixed anchors (bolts, pins, slings) are appropriate in Wilderness
- Promote the protection of Wilderness characteristics and resources
- Ensure public input on climbing management
Breaking the news the US Access Fund gave more details confirming:
‘After more than 30 years of hard work, Access Fund has permanently protected over 50,000 climbing routes in 28 states, including iconic climbs like The Nose on El Capitan, Moonlight Buttress in Zion National Park, The Casual Route on the Diamond, and the Beckey Route in Washington's North Cascades.’
Listing those who had helped get the PARC passed onto the statute books the Access Fund thanked the following:
‘Representatives John Curtis and Joe Neguse, the original sponsors of the PARC Act, as well as Senators John Barrasso, Maria Cantwell, John Boozman, and John Hickenlooper for standing up for climbers. Special thanks also go to Senator Joe Manchin for his leadership in calling for the vote on the EXPLORE Act, which includes the PARC Act, as one of his final acts in the Senate.’
The Access Fund also offered further clarifications regarding the use of powered drills and anchors:
‘Climbers still cannot use power drills in Wilderness areas, and fixed anchors need to be placed only as a last resort. It is crucial that climbers continue to exercise restraint and respect when recreating in these awe-inspiring places.’
Read more about the PARC Bill here.