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Pitch

Definition of a Climbing Word

By , About.com Guide

Pitch

A pitch is a section of a cliff that is climbed between two belay points. The length of a pitch is determined usually by a variety of factors, including a good belay ledge, rope drag, solid rock, and the length of rope. Pitches are never longer than the length of a climbing rope, which is either 165 feet (50 meters) or 200 feet (60 meters). Most pitches on long climbs are between 100 and 160 feet long. Sport climbing pitches where the belayer is on the ground are seldom longer than 100 feet from the ground to anchors.

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