I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my full support to include rock climbing as a permitted activity at Devil’s Glen. Climbing is a unique activity that blends physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle with an immersive experience of the beauty of our natural environment. I have been outdoor climbing all over the world from the limestone tufa of Thailand to the Granite cliffs of Squamish but my outdoor climbing journey started on Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment over 25 years ago.

Having lived in a big city for most of my life I can attest to the vital importance of having access to natural spaces to appreciate wilderness, slow down and connect with the earth. I learned of the principle of Leave No Trace from a young age and have witnessed this ethic practiced by all of the climbers I know. I am an avid outdoor enthusiast and enjoy backcountry camping and canoeing. Some of my best memories come from climbing in Ontario, through exploring the limestone and granite cliffs, hiking trails and taking in grand vistas. Climbing promotes a deep respect for the layers of time etched into the stone, of the ancient cedars thriving on the edge and the quiet peace of the rolling forests.

The popularity of climbing has surged in recent years and as a lead climbing instructor at a climbing gym in Toronto I have seen this growth firsthand as most of my students mention the desire to learn how to climb outdoors. Conservation Halton is known for working productively with local climbing communities to promote safe access to rock climbing in the Milton area. Devil’s Glen Provincial Park would benefit from forming such a relationship.

Climbing has an established history at Devil’s Glen since the 1980’s and approving this proposal will clearly define the focus of conservation to the recreational users of the park. Formally including rock climbing as a permitted activity, establishing a designated parking lot, providing clearly marked trails and park boundaries and a regularly maintained washroom facility will serve Ontario Park’s vision to provide visitors a unique experience of the Niagara Escarpment.

I urge you to approve this proposal.