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Tyrolean Traverse

Description

A tyrolean traverse is similar to a guided rappel, but with a tyrolean traverse, you use your hands rather than a rappel device to control your speed. The tyrolean traverse is rigged by attaching each end of the rope to an anchor with the rope mostly taut. You then clip a carabiner to the rope and pull yourself from one end to the other. Because of the force vectors, the force transferred to the anchor on each end can be several times greater than the weight of the person. This means that the anchors must be very solid and a meat anchor is probably not adequate.

Advantages

The tyrolean can be beneficial for keeping people dry or for moving people over very difficult obstacles.

Disadvantages

The tyrolean requires 2 solid anchor, so it's not practical in very many canyons. It also takes a long time to rig.

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Canyon Movement