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Chockstone Forum - General Discussion

General Climbing Discussion

Topic Date User

Topping out vs lowering off (wimpy climber ethic?) 26-Aug-2004 At 9:40:50 PM dilbster

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Lower offs are a very practical solution to the environmental problem that is created by climbers at the top of cliffs. In places like Nowra they make sense as the top of the cliff is ussually covered in vegetation which would be destroyed by climbers topping out.

In the UK i saw a great many crags with top outs much the worse for wear due to their stubborn refusal for lower offs. I have even finished a few climbs in peoples backyards.

In the blue mountains, both the west face of the three sisters and the face of mount banks have been closed at least partially due to corrosion at the top of cliff faces. Do not encourage closures of more crags due to corrosion.

Lets not let our stubborness destroy the environment we enjoy just because of some egotistic ideal!.