Receive hands-on, experiential training for “kids” of all ages.
Rock climbing has taken the world by storm with the announcement of its debut in the 2020 Olympics. A total of 40 athletes (20 male and 20 female) will compete for Olympic sport climbing medals in Tokyo in 2020 with the finishing places based on combined scores from each of the speed, lead and bouldering disciplines.
While this renewed interest in rock climbing has been phenomenal for the outdoor recreation industry, it has had a negative impact on the natural environment.
Many veteran climbers got into this incredible sport as a way to get outside, enjoy the beauty of the mountains and challenge themselves with what many see as impossible. The crisp, clean mountain air and untamed rock faces taunted them with routes they had failed to complete. But with the growing population of climbers and hikers have come many changes.
Suddenly the overgrown trails that had torn at your shirt in the past were cleared, trampled and littered. Rocks that just months before had been preserved and unspoiled were now covered with graffiti and cigarette butts. The areas around the base of the walls that once teemed with plant life had turned into mud pits from illegal camping and chaotic foot traffic. Those seeking the peace, quiet and serenity of a brisk morning climb are now drowned out by the radio blaring full blast just down the trail.
Environmental damage has also included soil erosion, breaking rock features, chalk accumulation, harm to native plant species and threatening raptor nesting since the two activities often take place on the same steep overhangs.
Many indoor climbing gyms, climbing organizations and guide services are working to educate seasoned and new climbers on how to respect and take care of our treasured natural resources while still enjoying their favorite outdoor recreational pastime. The Access Fund, the most influential advocacy group for climbers nationwide, and many other climbing coalitions offer trail cleanup days to get their members involved in preserving our environment and to discuss ways to lessen the impact that climbing has on nature.
Climbers have begun to adopt many of the Leave No Trace Principles, which provide guidance to enjoy our natural world in a sustainable way that avoids human-created impacts. The principles have been adapted so they can be applied in your backyard or your backcountry.
If you are looking for a fun new outdoor sport that challenges both your physical and mental abilities, why not give rock climbing a try? Right here in Spartanburg, you have the opportunity to become a rock climbing enthusiast at the Glendale Outdoor Leadership School (GOLS). Founded to foster a learning environment dedicated to creating opportunities to enhance personal growth, healthy living and environmental stewardship within individuals, communities and society, GOLS provides education and skills training to help people stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors.
Located in Glendale near the Pacolet River, GOLS provides hands-on, experiential training for “kids” of all ages in individual sports, including mountain biking, indoor rock climbing and kayaking. Courses also include wilderness medicine for first responders, wilderness first aid, outdoor leadership and team building.
With more than 1,000 square feet of climbing space and nine belay stations, GOLS is a phenomenal place to begin your rock climbing experience. Our top roped walls stand at just over 20 feet high and include features such as ramped and inverted walls, crack climbing and bouldering areas. One of our highly trained climbing instructors will be available to assist with everything from harnessing and belaying to giving hints on the best way to get up a route.
Rock climbing builds muscle and endurance, teaches valuable life skills, reduces stress, builds brain function and could lead to a healthier, happier life. At the same time, you can make a difference by leading the way to prevent and minimize recreational impacts to our great outdoors and all of its inhabitants.
Storm Crane is program coordinator for Glendale Outdoor Leadership School (GOLS; https://setgols.org; 864-586-2021).