Protecting America’s Climbing isn’t a one-time thing. At areas like Lover’s Leap near Lake Tahoe, California, protecting and conserving the land requires years of effort. This well-loved spot, with its exceptional multipitch routes at moderate grades, draws climbers from throughout the region. But when the Caldor fire tore through the area in 2021, it devastated the entire landscape—trails and climbing areas included.
“Areas like Lover’s Leap are a stark reminder that we must prepare the climbing landscapes we love to adapt to a changing climate,” says Access Fund Stewardship Manager Andrea Hassler. “By working with local communities, our land stewardship experts help restore habitats, preserve biodiversity, and install recreation infrastructure that promotes sustainable access for generations to come.”
A new retaining wall supports an access trail and staging area at the Lower Buttress.
Earlier this year, the Access Fund Conservation Team returned to the Leap, where they worked alongside Climbing Resources Advocates for Greater Sacramento, Tahoe Climbing Coalition, Bay Area Climbers Coalition, Lover’s Leap Guides, Eldorado National Forest staff, and local volunteers. The team spent 30 days in the field and rallied more than 80 volunteers. Together, they moved 88 tons of stone to complete a retaining wall at the base of the Surrealistic Pillar and make improvements to access trails for the Lower Buttress.
“It’s rare to have an opportunity to work on an area across multiple years,” says Hassler. “Thanks to an incredible community effort across six weeks of Adopt a Crag days, Lover’s Leap is better equipped to continue welcoming and inspiring climbers.”
Project Stats
30 days in the field
5 volunteer events with 80 volunteers
480 total volunteer hours
400 feet of trail maintained
88 tons of stone moved
20 feet of social trail closed
3 retaining walls constructed totallng 77 feet in length
2 switchbacks and 5 drainage dips installed
Chip In Now: Your Donation Will Be Matched
Tools and equipment are critical to the Conservation Teams’ work—from gloves that protect their hands to pickaxes for breaking up hard dirt. Chip in today to support this critical work and Black Diamond will match your gift. Here’s what your donation can fund: