The Teton Climbers’ Coalition (TCC) continues to advance its Climbing Area Modernization (CAM) Project, an initiative launched in 2022 to upgrade and maintain the safety and sustainability of Jackson Hole’s climbing areas. Two recent efforts—a critical hardware replacement at Lower Blacktail Butte and the installation of new “marmot posts” at Rock Springs Buttress—highlight the CAM Project’s dual focus on safety and stewardship.
Safety Upgrades at Lower Blacktail Butte
On July 7, 2025, Jenny Lake Climbing Rangers identified potentially unsafe glue-in bolts on three routes at the Lower Blacktail Butte wall. Several bolts were loose and epoxy was deteriorating. Working closely with the Rangers, TCC mobilized an experienced team—Garrick Hart, Tom Hargis, Justin Tatosian, Hans Johnstone, Rob Werner, and Jenny Lake Ranger Cody Evans—to perform emergency repairs.
On July 20, the team replaced the suspect bolts and access anchors using modern, high-strength glue-ins supplied by the American Safe Climbing Association (ASCA). Old bolts, some dating back to 2000, were carefully removed and replaced in the original holes to minimize environmental impact.
Completed work includes:
- Inconceivable (5.11a) – 4th bolt replaced.
- Do the Right Thing (5.11b/c) – 5th and 6th bolts replaced.
- Time Flies When You’re Alive/Higher Education – all three top access anchors replaced.
A detailed inspection confirmed that all other hardware at Lower Blacktail is currently sound. Additional information on the project may be found here.
Wildlife-Friendly Marmot Posts at Rock Springs Buttress
On July 20, TCC also completed the installation of three marmot posts at Rock Springs Buttress to protect climbers’ gear from wildlife damage. A fourth post was added the following weekend, and all four posts were painted to camouflage them.
Modeled after the gear-hanging posts on the Lower Saddle in Grand Teton National Park, the posts elevate packs and equipment, reducing the chance of marmots chewing through unattended items.
The posts, constructed with low-impact, durable materials, are located:
- Near the start of Boxcar Arete.
- Near the base of Exum Arete.
- Near the start of Swordfish Lipstick.
“These posts are a simple solution that benefits both climbers and wildlife,” said Christian Beckwith, executive director of the TCC. “By hanging gear, we reduce the chance of marmots becoming habituated to humans while helping climbers protect their equipment.” See here for more information on the installation.
The CAM Project: Safety and Stewardship
The CAM Project, with support from partners like ASCA and the Jenny Lake Rangers, focuses on inspecting, repairing, and replacing aging hardware, while enhancing climbing areas in ways that protect the environment and reduce user impact. Previous CAM efforts have included modernization work at Blacktail Butte, Rodeo Wall, and Hoback Shield.
“Safety and stewardship are at the heart of the CAM Project,” added Beckwith. “Whether it’s replacing bolts or installing wildlife-friendly infrastructure, we’re ensuring that Jackson Hole’s climbing areas remain safe, accessible, and sustainable for future generations.”