The Boise climbing community lost a true legend with the passing of Doug Colwell. Doug was a founding member of the Boise Climbers Alliance and played a pivotal role in preserving access to the Black Cliffs at a time when a full climbing closure was a real possibility. He helped develop a strategy that trusted climbers to take responsibility for the places they love—voluntarily closing sections of the cliffs during raptor nesting season. That approach proved successful and remains a cornerstone of how the area is managed today and continues to allow climbing access. Doug’s commitment didn’t stop there. He continued serving on the BCA board until shortly before his passing, always advocating for climbers and the landscape.
During a bolting moratorium at Castle Rocks State Park he became a founding member of the Climbing Resource Advisory Group (CRAG), working directly with park officials to help negotiate a path forward and ultimately bring the moratorium to an end. His influence extended nationally as well through his service on the board of the American Alpine Club.
Beyond his advocacy, Doug was an accomplished climber with numerous international expeditions and first ascents to his name. But what set him apart was his desire to give back. After time spent in Nepal, he recognized an opportunity to support local climbers and mountaineers. Through the Khumbu Climbing Center, he shared his knowledge by teaching ice climbing, rock climbing, and mountaineering skills—helping inspire and empower a new generation.
Doug’s legacy lives on in the cliffs he helped protect, the community he strengthened, and the people he mentored along the way. He will be deeply missed.
