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Technical Climbing

Submitted by bog on Tue, 03/01/2016 - 21:27

Technical rock climbing is allowed in the park but is not a popular activity. This is due to the remoteness of the area and the looseness of the rock. All routes in the Wheeler Peak area are dangerous with deadly rock fall all year. Check with either of the visitor centers for more information.


Park Climbing Regulations

Climbers should remember that the primary purpose of Great Basin National Park is to preserve its outstanding resources and significant geological and scenic values. All biological, cultural, and mineral resources are protected in their natural state. To help accomplish this task, the park asks that climbers follow these regulations:

  • Chiseling, chipping, gluing, or breaking away rock, or otherwise physically altering the rock, is prohibited. This includes placing bolts or other fixed protection. Clean aid, top-roping, or traditional lead climbing are permitted.
  • The use of motorized drills, hand drills or other portable motorized equipment is not allowed.
  • Painting or otherwise marking the rock including names of climbs or ratings is prohibited.
  • Climbing within 100 yards of an archaeological site, including pictographs and petroglyphs, is not permitted.
  • Damaging plant life, including lichens and moss, is prohibited.

There are no specific climbing regulations on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. In the Mount Moriah Wilderness, use of mechanized equipment, including power drills, is prohibited.


Climbing Registration

Registering for technical climbs in the park is voluntary, but climbers are strongly encouraged to register at one of the visitor centers. Registration provides vital information for rescue teams.

If using chalk, pick a color that blends in with the dominant gray limestone in the park. Use muted color webbing or rope for rappel anchors.

In a climbing emergency, contact any ranger, campground host, or visitor center, or call 911. A pay phone is located at Lehman Cave Visitor Center. All climbers should be prepared for climbing in remote areas and be capable of self-rescue. Mountain rescue resources are limited and rescue teams may be hours away.