Overcrowding in the Mountains

We increasingly see images of overcrowding in the mountains, rivers of people climbing Pedraforca, dozens of people waiting in the middle of Pas de Mahoma to reach the summit of Aneto, taking turns for a photo at Pica d'Estats... And this increase causes its impact on nature.

Hiking or mountain activities are very enriching when shared with others, but how can we avoid adding fuel to the fire of overcrowding? 5 practical tips to face it!

Get up early. A good mountaineer doesn't get up at 9 am, they reach the summit at 9 am! Sometimes it's hard to wake up early, but the reward is high, and you can combine it with a good meal at a local restaurant ;)
Avoid large groups. With Pirineu A Peu, we always try to form small groups, not just for the visual and environmental impact, but for the group itself; we will get to know each other better, it will be easier to find a common rhythm, we will take better care of each other, and perhaps we will see more wildlife!
Choose unconventional routes. We love ticking off emblematic peaks, but by discovering wilder, less crowded areas and different perspectives, we give value to the territory we have.
Go during the week. It's not always possible, but it's one of the best ways to experience nature calmly and in its essence.
Keep quiet about those unknown places. If we post a photo on social media, we can opt for generic locations (e.g., "Parc Natural de l'Alt Pirineu") to highlight the natural space without specifying the lake, the waterfall, or the village in question.

Being able to reach the summit without crowds is a privilege that can be planned

The mountains are for everyone, but not everyone at the same time and without conditions. Each activity requires its planning, each place can support a certain number of visitors, and it's up to us to be part of this self-regulating game, using common sense and being aware of where we are and how we should interact with it.

Hiking or mountain activities are very enriching when shared with others, but how can we avoid adding fuel to the fire of overcrowding? 5 practical tips to face it!

Get up early. A good mountaineer doesn't get up at 9 am, they reach the summit at 9 am! Sometimes it's hard to wake up early, but the reward is high, and you can combine it with a good meal at a local restaurant ;)
Avoid large groups. With Pirineu A Peu, we always try to form small groups, not just for the visual and environmental impact, but for the group itself; we will get to know each other better, it will be easier to find a common rhythm, we will take better care of each other, and perhaps we will see more wildlife!
Choose unconventional routes. We love ticking off emblematic peaks, but by discovering wilder, less crowded areas and different perspectives, we give value to the territory we have.
Go during the week. It's not always possible, but it's one of the best ways to experience nature calmly and in its essence.
Keep quiet about those unknown places. If we post a photo on social media, we can opt for generic locations (e.g., "Parc Natural de l'Alt Pirineu") to highlight the natural space without specifying the lake, the waterfall, or the village in question.