Exposed pitch

Vertical caving terminology and methods > Pitches and potholes, general terms

Exposed pitch, exposed route, airy route

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Being exposed does not make a pitch any more risky, but makes the caver more aware of the heights. Eyehole Route, Rowten Hole. Picture by Mark Burkey.
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A very exposed traverse, 60 metres from the floor, half way down the pitch. Event Horizon, Titan, Peak Cavern. Picture by Mark Burkey.

A pitch or route down a pitch which makes the caver more aware of the heights, or makes the caver have to spend a great deal of time performing manoevers with very little rock to stand on above the pitch. This can be particularly noticeable with wide shafts, free-hangs, surface shafts and bolt traverses, but echoes from far below or thundering of powerful waterfalls can also cause it. This has a significant psychological effect, and can amplify a fear of heights.


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