We are entering a new phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Colorado. As our state and counties begin to transition to the Safer-At-Home guidance, the BCC is shifting our request to the climbing community. Our original guidance asked climbers to steer clear of crags and we want to thank all the folks who did their part to help limit the spread of the virus during such uncertain times. We know that wasn’t easy, but many of you stepped up to the plate and did what was best for the greater community and our land managers are grateful for it.
We understand that to many of our community members climbing is so much more than just another activity or sport. To many of us, climbing is part of who we are and intimately tied to our identity in this world. As we start the process of transitioning to our new normal, the BCC believes that responsible climbing can be a part of that process. We ask that those who decide to go climbing keep a few things in mind.
First, COVID-19 is a health crisis that has affected millions of people. It may not affect every single person in our community the same, but for many, it could mean life or death. Please put the health of others at the top of the priority list when deciding to go rock climbing. Second, this pandemic has put enormous strain on our local land managers. Many of them are being asked to handle higher than usual visitation rates while having fewer staff and resources. They are constantly having to evaluate restricting access as a management tool. It is paramount that climbers follow all rules and guidelines set by land managers to ensure access is not jeopardized. Keep an eye on our social media pages and website in the coming weeks and months for future updates, as we will continue to pass along information from land managers and health officials as it relates to climbing.
This is a long term situation and we need climbers to adapt to the pandemic and adjust behaviors accordingly. Sometimes, staying home rather than climbing will be the right call. Other times going out to crags might be acceptable with proper planning and precautions. We ask that if you decide to get out, please consider these guidelines for climbing during COVID-19, and know that it is a guide for you to make the best decisions for you; it is not meant to be a definitive guide on what to do.
Graphic by @coitcreative
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A few resources for consideration:
Access Fund - Climbing During the Coronavirus
American Alpine Club - Climbers Take Action Against Coronavirus
Salt Lake Climbers Alliance - The Million Dollar Question
Leave No Trace - Rock Climbing and Group Use