About: Generations of climbers have benefited from the work of the AAC. Here’s the short list of reasons that Marmot is a proud supporter and recommends that any dedicated climber becomes a member.

1) Knowledge and Inspiration: For 80 years climbers have shared stories of bold new lines and epic adventure through the American Alpine Journal, the world’s most sought-after annual climbing publication. Free for AAC members, each volume inspires new climbs and reignites old dreams. Experience the Journal’s influence for yourself by joining the AAC. But be forewarned, it may rouse you to drop everything in search of new adventure.

The AAC’s library is an indispensible resource for trip planning. Housing over 60,000 volumes, including classics that inspire the climbs of our dreams, guidebooks, maps, and DVDs, it’s the world’s largest climbing library. AAC members can search the catalog online and receive free outbound shipping. The savings, compared to buying maps and guidebooks, can easily offset the price of membership.

2) Conservation and Advocacy: For over a century, the AAC has helped protect our playgrounds around the world. John Muir, who dedicated his life to preserving Yosemite, was an AAC founder. David Brower was the club’s vice president in the 1950s. He and other AAC members helped win passage of the landmark Wilderness Act of 1964. Today AAC initiatives can be found across the country’s most iconic vertical landscapes, including Yosemite, Indian Creek, Castleton, Rocky Mountain National Park, the Tetons, the ’Gunks, and Denali. The AAC is also active internationally, from rebuilding popular approaches in Patagonia to supporting community-based conservation programs in the Himalayas. Cast your vote to protect the places we climb by becoming a member today.

3) Logistical Support: No one provides more grants for young climbers—helping many go beyond their home crag for the first time. The AAC provides its members with hut discounts all over the world. They operate the legendary Grand Teton Climbers’ Ranch and are now building a much-needed campground for climbers in the ’Gunks. And the AAC supports climbers through global rescue service. As a member, the first $5,000 of a rescue can be covered. To us that makes joining the AAC a no-brainer.

Discover the AAC for yourself at one of their events, like the annual Craggin’ Classic.