The Alpine Club Declaration on Freedom of Access

The Alpine Club believes that freedom of access to mountains and cliffs, exercised in a responsible manner, is a fundamental right. However, accepting that our sport carries the risk of accident and other misfortune, often in remote areas where help may not be easily available, we would not expect others to put their lives or well-being in jeopardy should mishap occur. We should also be prepared to accept restrictions if there are transparent ecological or humanitarian reasons.

Mountaineers and climbers must be responsible for their own safety, and for the safety of those, such as porters, who may accompany them. We must have respect for the cultures of those communities in whose homelands we have our adventures and for the natural environment - leaving the barest minimum trace of our passage. Provided these principles are observed, there can be no reason to place any restrictions on mountaineering, whether for political, environmental or safety reasons, however well meaning.