How Climate Breakdown Is Changing Canada’s Most Iconic Climbing Destination

Skiing isn't the only sport feeling the direct impacts of climate breakdown. My latest piece for Mpora explores the relationship between the climate crisis and Squamish's iconic landmark, the Stawamus Chief, and its local (and global) climbing fanbase. Seeing my new hometown and the Squamish community impacted by these direct climate shocks, I felt compelled to write this story.

“Nestled in the UNESCO Biosphere Region of Howe Sound, the iconic granite monolith Stawamus Chief towers 700m above the water of its surrounding town Squamish, in beautiful British Columbia. For the First Nations people of Squamish (Skwxwú7mesh), the Chief holds a spiritual significance—traditions say it was once a longhouse that was transformed to stone by Xáays, the spirit-beings known as the Transformer Brothers in this area. Their name for the mountain, Siyám’ Smánit, refers to someone deeply respected, such as a teacher, leader or elder. With equal respect and significance, the climbing community see the birthplace of climbing in the area in a similar light…”

Read the full story: https://mpora.com/rock-climbing/climbing-in-squamish-climate-change-impact/

Images by Kieran Brownie.