Bolts in Rocks Have Climbers Screaming From Mountaintops

Patrick Seurynck was scaling a dangerous 400-foot granite cliff near Aspen, Colo., last June when his partner above yelled down some disturbing news: "The anchors are gone!"

The 48-year-old Mr. Seurynck, who has been climbing rocks for 10 years, had just spent weeks drilling and placing numerous stainless-steel bolts for securing ropes. He knew immediately what had happened: A bolt chopper had struck. He climbed down safely, fuming.

"It was just arrogant audacity," says Mr. Seurynck, still riled.

Whether to bolt or not is a smoldering question in rock climbing these days as the sport comes to grips with growing popularity....