For some time, there’s been a buzz, and somewhat of a buzzkill, regarding the potential banning of fixed climbing anchors in Wilderness. The challenges in regulating such things are many. Fixed anchors are often located in hard-to-reach places. Some fixed anchors, sure, are front and center—most are not. Fixed, too, might be webbing slung around…
National Park Service OKs Fixed Anchors
Enjoying the view…and the fixed anchor. Fixed anchors in wilderness—the debate continues.
Response
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Well, that’s a relief. Hopefully other land agencies will follow suit.
Yes, anchors are man made structures, so run counter to the idea of designated wilderness. But so are trails, bear bag poles and latrines. All of those exist in Wilderness areas because not having them leads to user damage of the area. All of them are also much more impactful than a climbing anchor.
Since it is (almost) impossible to rappel from a face without leaving something behind, it’s good to be able to have user groups and volunteers provide the best, most appropriate solution for that climb.
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