The upper section of Grassi Lakes climbing area is now open!
This was a cooperative effort between government agencies
and groups representing the climbing and hiking community.
IMPORTANT:
The hazard created by the slumping
gabions (rock baskets) has been removed. During the removal, several of the
gabions broke open and spilled loose rock onto the slope. The slope was hand stabilized
by settling or rolling the loose rock into the canyon. However, there is still
a slightly elevated hazard in the fall area between Deviant on Swamp Buttress
and Carom on White Imperialist Left. It is STRONGLY recommend that climbers and
hikers avoid Carom and Spin on White Imperialist Left and any climbing on Swamp
Buttress North (Deviant) for the rest of this season. This will give the area
above a chance to further stabilize over the winter. The area is signed.
Some caution should also be exercised
in the area around Blunt on the Rectory. Several rocks fell in this area and
early ascents should check the integrity of anchors and bolts.
The following groups were involved in
the joint effort to reopen the upper canyon:
Alberta Parks and Recreation
Department of Transport
Association of Bow Valley Rock Climbers (TABVAR)
Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG)
Alpine Club of Canada (ACC)
Climbers Access Society of Alberta (CASA)
Calgary Mountain Club (CMC)
A special thanks to Mike Radik and Scott McKay who worked
alongside myself to hand stabilized the upper slope.
Chris Miller
ACMG/IFMGA Mountain Guide