Jim Dunn on the Delicate Arch Fiasco

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ThomasChermack

Trad climber

Minneapolis, MN

Jun 8, 2006 - 12:16pm PT

Hello--- I just returned from a three week trip in the Indian Creek / Castle Valley / Moab / Arches area. It was my 5th trip there and I am repeatedly called to return.

What is so magical about this area is that it is one of the few places without strict rules and regulations -- one of the few places where one can still experience the desert solitude so beautifully written about by Abbey. (Think of camp slime in the gunks....what a difference, eh?). Nature is trusting us in these areas to behave as respectful travelers of the land. The WAG bags at Indian Creek and at Castleton are a good thing and I hope climbers will make every effort to respect and preserve these areas and all they have to offer.

Regarding the recent events in Arches I can only really say that I am scared that the impact will be far reaching. Consider a wost case situation of no camping at Indian Creek -- what if we had to drive in from Moab everyday? This may be an exaggeration, but is it really that far fetched?

I do not consider it my place to offer any judgement here -- what is done is done. My purpose is to urge climbers to move forward toward establishing the best possible relations with park managers and rangers.

The incident has inspired me to write a respectful and apologetic letter to Laura Joss, to write to the head ranger at Canyonlands, to increase my contribution to the Friends of Indian Creek, and to increase my contribution to the Access Fund.

I urge you all to do the same.

With respect,
Tom