We affirm the intrinsic value of mountain regions and mountain sports to the human spirit. We advocate for self-propelled, low impact public access to wilderness areas and climbing locations when such access can be maintained without undue degradation of the alpine environment.

We strongly believe that access is best achieved through respectful collaboration and open dialogue. Through our 22 sections located across the country, we work in close collaboration with government, private landowners, and other user groups to develop access management plans and agreements that ensure responsible use of climbing and backcountry areas by our members. We ask all our members to set an example by respecting access agreements and by leaving no trace.

Click here to go to Aspects - the ACC blog

Aspects - the ACC Blog is where you'll find the most current stories about our efforts on creating, maintaining and fighting for access to our mountain environments.

The national club and our 22 regional sections are working in all corners of Canada on issues that affect our access. Keep up on the latest and find out where you can help by checking out Access on Aspects - the ACC blog.

Peyto Hut on the Wapta Icefields

The ACC operates the largest network of backcountry huts in North America, giving our users access to a wide range of climbing, hiking and skiing terrain in the alpine and backcountry of many areas of Canada in all seasons.

The ACC is proud to provide safety and comfort to mountain travellers. See our huts page to learn more about where we operate facilities.

• Recognizing the Value of Wilderness and Backcountry Experiences Within a Public Land Management Context

Across Canada there are regional access groups that represent the interests of self-propelled outdoor enthusiasts. A list of some of these groups with whom the ACC has collaborated can be found below:.

Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) CPAWS is dedicated to protecting Canada’s public land and waters. The ACC shares many interests with CPAWS, including limiting development and advocating for responsible growth in our protected lands

International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) The ACC is a member of the UIAA which promotes the growth and protection of mountaineering and climbing worldwide, advances safe and ethical mountain practices and promotes responsible access, culture and environmental protection

Mountain Equipment Co-op MEC is Canada’s top outdoor retailer and one that acts to protect the environment it’s members recreate in. MEC are devoted to inspiring and enabling Canadians to pursue mountain adventure and shares the ACC’s commitment to protecting and enhancing recreation access and promoting safe and responsible use of the outdoors.

Leave No Trace (LNT) Leave No Trace promotes minimal impact in recreational activities through education and adoption of key principles. This partnership is key to helping our members become aware of, and reduce their impacts in sensitive areas through responsible use.