Leave No Trace Ethics for Rock Climbers

The 7 'Leave No Trace' principles have become common knowledge for avid outdoor recreation participants. For rock climbers, each principle applies, though there are some additional things to keep in mind when heading out for a climbing trip. Here are some rock climbing-specific LNT tips. 1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: When choosing a route, be mindful of your own climbing ability, and the ability of your partner. By researching your intended route and utilizing guidebooks, you will be able to gain a better understanding of what each route has to offer. Along with this, it is always recommended to do gear checks prior to your adventure. This involves inspecting your ropes, harness, and all active and passive protection. Check for fraying on your ropes and other soft goods such as the dogbones of quickdraws, cracking or rust on cams or stoppers, and ensuring your harness is in good condition with a proper belay loop and intact leg loops. 2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: For some locations, climbing areas do