Climbing Safety

NPS/Bill Bjornstad

Rock climbing has inherent risks and climbers assume complete responsibility for their safety. The National Park Service does not inspect, maintain, or repair fixed anchors and other climbing equipment. Climbers must have the appropriate skill and equipment for the route, conditions, weather, and season. A fixed anchor is defined as any piece of climbing equipment that is left in place to facilitate a safe ascent or rappel. Examples include, but are not limited to, bolts, pitons, and slings.

Be Prepared

Joshua Tree National Park is a maze of cliffs, canyons, washes, and boulders. The logistics of a rescue requires time to dispatch members and resources of the Joshua Tree Search and Rescue team. This can take several hours or even days. Do not expect a quick rescue. Be prepared with extra water, clothing, food, and a first-aid kit.

Emergencies

In an emergency, call 911. Be prepared to report the nature of the injuries, the nearest landmark, and the name of the rock formation and climbing route.

Cell phone service is unreliable in most of the park. There is an emergency phone attached to the bathroom in the Intersection Rock parking area next to Hidden Valley Campground. A second emergency phone is located at the ranger station at Indian Cove. Assistance is available at entrance stations and visitor centers, when they are open.

 

Tips to Stay Safe while Climbing

• Be prepared for the climb you choose. Joshua Tree is an “old school” climbing destination with stiff grades and sometimes sparse protection.

• Climb within your ability level. Do not climb unless you have the proper training and skills to keep you safe. If you are unsure whether you or your party have the required skills, hire a guide or get professional training.

• Tie knots at the end of your rope for added security when rappelling or lowering.

• Double-check your anchors, knots, harnesses, and all other safety equipment including fixed gear. Make sure you have the proper gear and that it is undamaged before you start a climb. Parks retain the right to remove bolts in areas/zones where they are prohibited and/or when placed without proper authorization.

**The National Park Service does not inspect, maintain, or repair fixed anchors and other climbing equipment.

• Have a plan. Do you know what to do if someone gets injured, weather changes, or the trip is taking longer than planned? Preparing before your trip will help you make a smart decision when the moment arrives. Ensure someone else know your trip plans.

• Know your route. Get familiar with the area you will be climbing in and track your location using a map and compass or GPS. Bring the appropriate equipment for the route you are doing and know how to use it.

• Make sure your group has clear communication terms and knows when to use them. Outside noises like wind can make communication much more difficult. Make sure you have a nonverbal communication plan that everyone understands.

• Always wear a helmet. All climbers face the risk of slamming against a rock face, flipping upside down or encountering a rock fall. Stumbles and accidents can happen on any terrain to all ability levels. Therefore, always make it a point to protect your head.

• Check the weather before climbing. Obtain forecast information before beginning your climb and observe changing weather conditions. Be prepared to turn around if conditions worsen.

• In case of emergency, be prepared for self-rescue. Rescue is not a certainty and cell phone service is unlikely in most locations. Make plans for self-rescue and, should an unexpected incident arise, clearly and loudly call out for help.

• Cell phone service is unreliable in most of the park. If phone service is available, call 911. Be prepared to report the nature of the injuries, the nearest landmark, and the name of the rock formation and climbing route.

• Use an emergency phone. There is an emergency phone attached to the bathroom in the Intersection Rock parking area next to Hidden Valley Campground. A second emergency phone is located at the ranger station at Indian Cove. Assistance is available at entrance stations and visitor centers, when they are open.