Climbing Etiquette


Leave No Trace

Follow the 7 Principles: Plan Ahead, Travel on Durable Surfaces (designated trails), Dispose of Waste Properly, Leave What You Find, Minimize Campfire Impact, Respect the Wildlife, and Be Considerate of Others 

Travel on Durable Surfaces

Several of the crags have designated trails to them, some have foot paths and others may need river crossings/boulder hopping. When in doubt be mindful of your impact and you may be rewarded with some blueberry picking along the way.

Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack out what you pack in. There are typically trash cans or dumpsters at trailheads to assist with easy disposal. 

  • Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.
  • Bury toilet paper deep in a cathole or pack the toilet paper out along with hygiene products.

Respect the Wildlife

We have several large and small animals that frequent several of the crags in Alaska.

Remain Bear Aware (Portage, Seward Highway, Eagle River Nature Center, Chickaloon) 

  • review signage as you enter the trailhead for last sighting
  • slowly back away from wildlife if encountered 
  • be loud and big as you can while backing away 
  • keep bear spray within reach and once sprayed don't remain in the area 

Moose 

  • Be aware of the rutting season as all moose are more apt to be aggressive 
  • If you see calves, mom is nearby and is highly aggressive

Dogs 

  • Keep on leash/lead in alpine areas to protect Marmot & Pika populations 
  • They will notify you that a large animal is in the area but they also might provoke it ... bring at your own risk.

Crag Considerations & Maintainence

Hatcher & Service Boulder

  • Can use wire brushes, use sparingly

All Other Climbing Areas

  • Soft bristle brush should be plenty to clean holds 

Choss

  • knock before you pull, if it sounds hollow tread carefully

Moss & Lichen

  • discrete brushing is encouraged and practiced in Alaska.
  • Bring a towel for the topouts rather than knocking moss 4-5 feet back. 

Boulder Development

There are several locals and frequent fliers who have assisted with developing these areas. If you feel the need to establish new routes please reach out on the facebook page or contact the author of several climbing guides in Alaska. He'll point you in the right direction or enlighten you that it's already been climbed.