multi pitch

My climbing partner and I have recently ventured into multi pitch routes. We have a trip planned in a couple of weeks on a 5 pitch climb that sounds like a classic at this particular crag. I have heard of other parties climbing through and passing slower groups. My question is what is acceptable and what is not? We always try and use proper etiquette while climbing around other groups. By the way the route we are doing has bolted anchors at each belay and I am guessing if we did climb through this is where we would pass them but like I said I want to do what is right it may not be the right thing to do.

And for an example of people who are not as courteous to other groups we came a cross a group of climbers last weekend and one of them had pissed in the middle of the trail that is more of a scramble that requires using your hands. Luckily for us they let us know but what an ass to do this in the first place

Slow team should allow fast team to pass. Fast team should pass in a respectful manner without endangering slow team.

What are you getting on ?? Get there early and you won't have a problem

general rule #1
Don't be a jerk (you sound like a nice guy)

general rule #2
Only pass a party if it will actually save the faster party a reasonable amount of time.

going through all the trouble of passing folks at a belay, or getting passed is not worth it if it only saves the passing team 10 minutes. Just my 2 cents.

I remember your post about stone depot a while back. If you are talking about anything there you will be there alone, there is never anyone there honestly.

Thanks guys and who knows we might be the ones getting passed. Just curious. we do go out of our way to stay out of the way of more advanced groups and lend a helping hand less experienced groups.

unless it´s a hugely long route I rarely bother to pass anyone, I find it pleasant to meet new climbers at belays and have a chat while our respective partners do their thing.

The worst thing is when you are sitting on a belay station and some other party comes up to share it. Already cramped, then one of the dudes decides to take off his shoes! Phew!
I had a good experience when two girls were decendign the route and landed on the station sharing beta and were just awesome inspiring people. One dude lit up a cig on belay... We met a british couple who were pretty cool actually. So, experiences vary as you may see...be cool and just take it as it comes. Safety first, don't feel rushed and politely speak up if you have to.

Add to the mix:

If you ever pass someone...
You becaome ten fold more responsible for other's safety below you.
You passed, they didn't choose to climb behind !

If you pass, you BETTER not climb slow afterwards!

And yes, if you are slow, let groups pass. It's only polite. Kind of like driving a car. Be aware of the fact that others need to use the road.

If you were first to start the climb, you've earned the additional safety of not having a party climbing above you. Don't give it up lightly.