Best Practices
Route Naming
“When naming a new route, developers and first ascentionists have the opportunity to impact the climbing community in a positive way. In doing so, we are taking on something very important.”
Historically, in most climbing and mountaineering cultures, naming new routes, cliffs, and sectors have been the unwritten prerogative of the respective developers or first ascensionists. Most of the time, these names are fun, unique, and characteristic of the creativity and adventure of our sport. But what happens when a route is named in a way that rubs people the wrong way, or at worst, is deeply hurtful?
This Best Practices chapter provides suggestions and considerations that can create positive impact for both climbers and local communities. By working together, developers, first ascentionists, and the broader community can collaborate in harmony and continue adding to the colorful history of our sport in a way that reflects well for generations to come.
Ulf Fuchslueger
theCrag
Switzerland
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