Trail Registers, Trail Nicknames & Ropes Gone Bad

Ever wondered where those summit trail registers actually come from and where they go when they disappear? This week, Gear Abby digs into the surprising history behind those iconic peak notebooks.

Next, a listener questions whether spouses should be allowed to assign trail names and whether there’s an official appeal process when you get stuck with a mediocre nickname.

Finally, things get serious (well as serious as Gear Abby gets anyway): what should you do if your climbing partner wants to use a rope that looks worn out? Shawnté breaks down how to inspect climbing ropes, when to retire them, and why trusting your gut matters when safety is on the line.

Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to [email protected]... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.

Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.