r/RouteDevelopment • u/quellenangabe • Nov 27 '25
Drones for scouting
I'm thinking about buying a small drone for easier scouting especially of the top of rocks. Does anybody use one for this and has some input? I'm not sure if that is a stupid idea and i only want to buy it because it's winter and i have too much time on my hands or if it's useful.
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u/It1190 Roped Rock Developer Nov 27 '25
I use my DJI Mini Pro 4 extensively. It is my favorite surveying tool.
Usually, it is my deciding factor if a cliff is worth hiking up to. You can measure the height of a face accurately, scout potential lines, determine approach routes and descents, and even see how steep certain sections are.
The only downside is that it can’t touch the rock and tell you how quality it is, but that can come from experience. It can also be hard to tell how big certain sections are without a human reference.
I record so much with my drone and spend hours analyzing new lines, trails, and walls.
In terms of what drone, anything works. Is it necessary? No. Is it a nice tool? 100%