Our Mission:
The Gunks Climbers Coalition is dedicated to creating and protecting sustainable and inclusive opportunities for responsible climbing and land stewardship along the Shawangunk Ridge and surrounding areas. We pursue these ideals and the interests of our membership through engagement with local land managers, promotion of continual environmental and recreational education, and cooperation with allied organizations across broader communities.
Our Vision:
The Shawangunk Ridge and surrounding lands are a beautiful and majestic area noted for striking landscapes, distant views and world-class climbing. The remarkable legacy of the Shawangunks, one of the oldest and most distinguished climbing areas in the United States, is shared with visitors from the world over, who enjoy its unique climbing opportunities as well as its natural and scenic setting. We seek to balance expansion of climbing opportunities with respect for the unique ecosystems of the ridge.
Our Statement of Values:
We value…
- The long-term benefits for those who live near or visit the Shawangunks.
- A sustainable healthy climbing resource.
- Participating in networks, partnerships, and communities with related interests in order to meet our common goals.
- Grassroots support from a diverse climbing community.
- Our contribution to local communities.
- An educational approach to resolving issues.
JEDI Mission Statement
The GCC stands firmly behind the belief that LGBTQ+, Adaptive, BIPOC and other People of the Global Majority should feel safe and supported in the local outdoor recreation community.
We commit to working with all members of the climbing community, regardless of identity, to uphold an inclusive climbing environment.
Our Organization:
The Gunks Climbers’ Coalition is an official affiliate of The Access Fund, keeping climbing areas open and conserving the climbing environment.
Our History:
On August 3rd, 2002, Access Fund Coordinator, John Meyers, held a meeting at Rock and Snow to talk about forming a Gunks Climbers’ Coalition. About 80 climbers turned out to hear him discuss his vision for an influential and constructive organization. Volunteer forms were handed out and a steering committee was formed to create the organization. Shortly afterwards, John was unable to continue spearheading the project and the steering committee began growing the organization on their own, led by Lizz Bartlett as the chairman.
[More History to Come!]
Archives:
We no longer publish newsletters, but we have them in our GCC Newsletter archives.