Rock climbers concerned over forest fires in 'bouldering mecca' Fontainebleau

Rock climbers are expressing deep concern as wildfires rage through the forests of Fontainebleau, a renowned European bouldering mecca. The fires have impacted the natural environment surrounding the popular climbing sites, raising fears about the damage to historic routes and the ecosystem.

Hannes Van Duysen, an Olympic climber, described Fontainebleau as "the most beautiful place in Europe to boulder" but voiced fears about the extensive damage. The forest, covering 250 square kilometers in the Seine-et-Marne department, attracts over 10 million climbers annually. Pieter Van Coile, chairman of the vzw We are CLIMBR organization, stated that while their planned climbing weekends have not yet been canceled, local contacts report that much of the natural area around the climbing massifs has been engulfed in flames.

The extent of the damage to the rock formations themselves remains unclear. However, Van Coile noted that the surrounding vegetation will require significant time to recover. He cautioned that if large numbers of climbers place their crash pads on the recovering ground, it could hinder the natural healing process. Bouldering involves climbing low rock walls (up to 5 meters) without ropes, using thick crash pads for safety, and requires a combination of physical strength and problem-solving skills.

Samuel Duron, who provides training at the Bleau climbing gym in Ghent, had to cancel his upcoming trip to Fontainebleau. He described the forest as an "ideal base" for a weekend escape from indoor climbing, with its more than 30,000 climbing routes deep within the woods. Duron mentioned that the first Bleau climbing gym even derived its name from the forest, aiming to replicate Fontainebleau's unique rock formations.

Olympic climber Hannes Van Duysen, who recently purchased an apartment outside the affected forest area, highlighted Fontainebleau's accessibility for all skill levels and the pleasant climbing texture of its sandstone. Van Duysen, a two-time world junior bouldering champion and 14th at the 2024 Paris Olympics, often visits the area. Van Coile added that their organization focuses on teaching "first-timers" about responsible and ecological climbing practices in Fontainebleau, including how to prevent forest fires. Signs prohibiting open flames are posted throughout the forest, underscoring the risks. The cause of the Fontainebleau fire is under investigation, with suspicions it may have been deliberately set.