SANParks spells out the risks of stacking rock cairns

Posted by Jordyn Johnson on 24 March 2023

SANParks has called upon the public to refrain from stacking rock cairns.

SANParks rock cairns

Rock cairns: small piles of rocks stacked on top of each other.

They are often seen outdoors on hiking trails, wilderness areas, or rocky shores, and used for multiple purposes such as trail markers or artistic expression.

Although fun to build and admire, rock cairns can have adverse effects on the environment.

By building rock cairns, the natural habitats of small creatures, like crabs and mollusks, can be disturbed. Moving rocks may disrupt or destroy their homes and subsequently their populations.

SANParks rock cairns

Picture: Adla Da Silva/ Cape Town Etc

They can cause erosion and destabilise wilderness areas or the shoreline. Rocks serve an important purpose in protecting the shoreline against ocean forces and erosion. Moving those rocks destabilises the coastline which can lead to erosion and damage to ecosystems. Sedimentation caused by soil erosion can poorly impact water quality and aquatic habitats.

The rock cairns themselves can change the natural beauty of an area or even destroy cultural or natural heritage sites. They are also a potential safety hazard to small children.

Before you start stacking your own rock cairn, SANParks reminds us that ‘every small action counts towards protecting our planet.’

Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured. 

TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

ALSO READ: 5 tips on how to survive, and even enjoy your first hike






yoast-primary - 1004431
tcat - Travel news
tcat_slug - travel-news
tcat2 - Travel news
tcat2_slug - travel-news
tcat_final -