Exclusive – Kinnaird Bluffs Rock Climbing Area Saved!

The Mountain Culture Group has just learned that the Kinnaird Bluffs rock climbing area in Castlegar, British Columbia, has been purchased by a group hoping to save it from development.

In the Summer 2016 issue of Kootenay Mountain Culture magazine an article appeared describing the plight of the Association of West Kootenay Rock Climbers and how its directors were raising funds to purchase the private land upon which the bluffs are located. (See the full story below.) Today, TAWKROC director Craig Stowell announced the deal has gone through and the association is now on title for the 17-acre plot of land located beside the Emerald Green Subdivision.

“This is a dream come true,” Craig says from his home in Nelson. “Rock climbers have wanted to ensure access to this area for over two decades and to receive confirmation from the lawyers that TAWKROC now owns it is amazing.”

Craig says the non-profit association raised $35,000 towards the cost of the property and then received a private loan to cover the remaining amount, which will need to be paid back over the next two years.

“We can’t express enough just how grateful we are to the rock climbing community,” Craig continues. “This wouldn’t have happened without private citizens stepping forward to help ensure rock climbers, hikers and other outdoor aficionados continue to have access to this historic site.”

Craig says the next step is to begin talks with the City of Castlegar and start the process to donate the property as a park. He also says the fundraising campaign will continue so the association can pay back the private loan that helped cover the remaining amount of the property cost.

If you would like to donate, log on to www.access-society.ca.