Climbers Access Society Of BC

Route Cleaning Dangers Stawamus Chief

written Friday, January 15, 2010

for Squamish

by Peter Winter

Route Cleaning Dangers Stawamus Chief

Over the past few months, there have been a few extremely close calls where people walking at the base of the Chief were almost hit by debris from above. Climbers, developing new routes, had intentionally dropped the debris, but had not flagged the trails leading up the base with caution tape and signs. At of yet, BC Parks has no official policy regarding route cleaning. At this time, CASBC strongly suggests that route developers think carefully through the process prior to cleaning, regardless of the time of year or weather. Assume that people will be walking below unless they are specifically cautioned not to. To increase safety in the Park, CASBC suggests posting unambiguous signage and flagging tape on all the trails that lead to the fall zone.

These near misses are of great concern to CASBC and to BC Parks. Human life and the future of route development in Stawamus Chief Park are at stake; your cooperation is appreciated.