Conquering New Crags: How Mountain Project Makes You a Rock Climbing Tourist Pro
So, you've booked your dream climbing trip to a new area. Psyched? Absolutely. Prepared? Not quite. Sure, you've packed your harness, collected your gear, and visualized yourself crushing routes. But when you stand at the base of an unfamiliar cliff, even the most seasoned climber can feel a little lost.
This is where Mountain Project (MP) can be an effective tool for accelerating your knowledge of a crag. It's an online collaborative resource and app that acts as a comprehensive guidebook to crags around the world. While I’m not suggesting that MP can replace a well written guidebook, it is an effective tool if you know how to use it correctly. Here's how MP can turn you from a clueless tourist to being confused for a local:
Flatirons of Boulder, Colorado
Decoding the Ratings: MP offers user-generated ratings for each climb. Don't just take a 5.10a at face value. Check the comments! To see the comments beyond the front page, click “View Opinions” on the web page or “View Ticks”next to the comments on the app. See if climbers found the rating accurate, or if it leans a bit stiffer or easier than expected. You can also find more detail on the gear or decent beta than what may be on the front page. This insider knowledge can help you build a confident project list and avoid getting pumped (both physically and mentally) on a route that's unexpectedly challenging.
Forum Frenzy: MP's forums are a treasure trove of local knowledge. Be sure to search the forums for discussions about the crag you're visiting before posting a question. Ask specific questions about beta, gear recommendations, or hidden gem routes that aren't as popular or which crags may be good on windy days. You might even use it as a partner finder to find a local willing to show you the area.
Downloadable Diagnostics: Cell service at crags can be patchy, at best. Don't get caught squinting at a tiny phone screen halfway up a route. Use the MP app to download photos and topos (diagrams) of the climbs you're eyeing. You should see this in the area next to the photos saying “Download all Photos”. Be sure to download more than just your specific route, as this may help you understand the climbs around you to ensure you’re getting on the right climb.
Approach Trail Intel: The approach hike can sometimes be as challenging as the climb itself. Use MP to research the approach trails. The approach trails can be found in the “Maps” button at the top of the area or climb. Some approaches have specific yellow lines that get you to your area. You can combine this with your blue dot while hiking to see if you’re on trail. MP maps are satellite images, so you may see your trail right next to the wash you’re currently stuck in. This will also help you identify the best place to park for your climb.
By utilizing these features, Mountain Project equips you with the knowledge and confidence to explore new crags like a seasoned local. So, bookmark MP, pack your adventurous spirit, and get ready to crush climbs in your new climbing playground!
Image shot at Buvette