Read this before publishing a Verified Topo

Before publishing, the 27 Crags team personally reviews your topo to ensure it meets our quality standards. The evaluation is based on the following criteria, which together form the quality factor:

• 20% — Topo Description

• 20% — Access info, approach, and GPS trails

• 20% — Quality of topo images

• 10% — Route descriptions

• 10% — Route properties

• 10% — Route info: FA and date

• 10% — Additional images

Each element is scored 0–3. The maximum quality factor is 1.0 (100%) and the minimum required to publish a Verified Topo is 0.6 (60%). If your topo scores below this, it won't be published until more information is added.

The higher your quality factor, the higher your topo income. A quality factor of 0.6 earns 60% of the potential maximum income — improving to 0.8 increases income by 20%.

Topo Description

20% of the quality factor — edit on web and app

Your topo description is the sales pitch for the climbing. Think about what you'd want to know before visiting somewhere new: rock type, climbing style, best season, how quickly it dries, quality of landings or the cliff base, whether it's family-friendly. Name some of the best routes and include a bit of history if you know it. Feel free to use some emojis to structure the text!

Access

20% of the quality factor — edit on web and app; GPS trails via web only

A good access section covers three things:

1. Any special rules at this topo

2. How to drive there and where to park

3. How to reach the spots on foot

This 20% also includes GPS trails. If the topo is missing trails, it won’t get the maximum 3/3 from Access.

Quality of topo images

20% of the quality factor — edit on web and app

Good topo images are the foundation of a Verified Topo. Tips for the best results:

1. Shoot when the rock is dry

2. Choose a time of year when there are no leaves blocking the view

3. Avoid harsh shadows — overcast days are often best

4. Find a distance that shows the full wall without losing detail

Route descriptions

10% of the quality factor — edit on web and app

A good route description gives the climber just enough to spark curiosity without spoiling the onsight. For boulder problems, consider describing the starting holds, or in the case of a drop-off boulder, the top hold.

Route properties

10% of the quality factor — edit on web and app

Route properties give a quick visual impression of the route (crimpy, overhanging, sit start, etc.). Keep it concise — 3–4 properties is a good maximum.

First ascent and date

10% of the quality factor — edit on web and app

If you know the first ascensionist or bolter and the year, add it. This gets you full points for this section.

Additional images

10% of the quality factor — edit on web and app

Add high-quality climbing and atmosphere shots to bring your topo to life. Topos with great photos are more likely to be shared on 27 Crags' social channels, which also increases topo income. Make sure to pick the best shot for the cover!

Ready?

Once you're happy with everything, send your topo for evaluation!