I've always enjoyed being…

I've always enjoyed being outdoors and recreating in the various parks around Ontario, but as I've grown, rock climbing has rekindled a newfound of connection with the bounty of natural features and formations that Ontario has to offer. It has provided a beautiful setting in which to understand and appreciate the various flavours of the escarpment and to connect with the kind and respectful community seen throughout the province.

That said, my experiences at different areas have varied wildly, and in large part this can be attributed to the resources devoted to, or the recognition status of the space. It can be simple things like trail blazes and path maintenance towards the rock face, and up to climbing route maintenance (replacement of worn equipment) and emergency service signposting (standard route number plaques). All of these things come together to create a welcoming and approachable environment for new and experienced climbers to safely, and responsibly enjoy the natural beauty of Ontario for many years to come.

By formally recognizing climbing within Devil's Glen, this will allow for a better structuring of the effort to create a safe and responsible experience with appreciation and conservation as the core values. I hope the efforts at Devil's Glen can serve as a case study and a model to bring this access and support to other sites around the province.

Thank you for your consideration.