The Advocate: Chris Winter and the Access Fund

COVID-19 is crushing our climbing areas. With gyms closed or operating at limited capacities, many new climbers are venturing outside for the first time—which is amazing to see—but the record numbers are taking a toll on the environment. In the United States, popular crags and bouldering areas simply can’t handle the masses. We’re loving our climbing areas to death.

Access is not a given—and we often take it granted. Chris Winter, executive director of the Access Fund, is tasked with the challenging job of protecting America’s climbing. And while there are dedicated organizations and individuals working to preserve the places we love, it’s ultimately up to the community as a whole.

Join us for an Instagram Live session with Winter and Tenaya’s Hayden Carpenter to learn more about responsible climbing, conservation, and how we, as individuals, can be better stewards to our crags.