Do I need to sign a waiver ?

Yes. All guests doing activities with Girth Hitch Guiding are required to sign a paper waiver. You can find our waiver below, and more on our safety page.

ACMG Waiver

What are some fun activities for me and my friends in the mountains this year?

We highly suggest The Fox Via Ferrata for a group of friends in the summer! This adventure is great as it provides a shared experience while also achieving the same goal – stunning mountain views of Lake Abraham. In the winter, ice climbing or ice canyoning is another great activity for a group of friends.

What are some fun team building activities in the mountains this year?

The Fox via ferrata is a great team building activity for any type of team – corporate, sports etc. This adventure is great as it provides a shared experience while also achieving the same goal – stunning mountain views of Lake Abraham.

Can I take my child on a via ferrata?

Not without a certified guide. It is actually illegal under Alberta law to take children under 16 on any via ferrata without an ACMG certified guide. ACMG certified guides are trained in not just climbing, but also wilderness first aid and rescue. Via ferrata is a lot of fun and accessible to the young and old, but it is still important to use a guide, whether you are in Banff National Park, or Nordegg/Lake Abraham. We suggest a minimum age of 12 to join on one of our via ferrata guided trips.

Who can I climb a via ferrata with?

Via ferrata is a lot of fun and accessible to the young and old, but it is still important to use a guide, whether you are in Banff National Park, or Nordegg/Lake Abraham. We suggest a minimum age of 12 to join on one of our via ferrata guided trips.

You can bring your friends and co-workers as long as they have a reasonable level of fitness –  ability to climb a (long) ladder, go for a short run or hike. For guests over the age of 60, please contact Nicole in Bookings. 

What should I pack?

You will receive a detailed packing list 3 weeks prior to your trip dates. For summer adventures, the basic things to consider are a pair of supportive day hiking shoes, a good waterproof shell, pants that are comfortable to move and climb in, and an insulating layer (puffy or fleece work great) and food and water. Please ensure you thoroughly review the equipment list prior to meeting your guide for your adventure.

Should I get insurance for my trip with a guide?

We do not require travel insurance for your climbing trip, but you may feel more comfortable adding a policy to cover cancellation, accidents or other unforeseen events. We do not offer insurance, please contact your preferred insurance broker. 

If you require additional help with your planning, please contact us:

Is there somewhere I can check the weather leading up to my adventure?

Our guides like to use www.spotwx.com.

The weather is looking poor for my adventure dates … what can I do?

Our guides are highly experienced and knowledgeable about the area they climb in and will find a suitable objective that will give you the best experience possible given the current conditions. The best thing you can do is make sure you have the proper equipment and clothing to be warm and comfortable in all weather conditions.

Please see the Girth Hitch Guiding Policies if you have further questions regarding cancellation.

Can a guide teach me to rock climb?

YES. Most ACMG guides climb many days in a year and have many many years experience climbing. They are trained to help you learn how to rock climb outdoors. It is important to use a guide when starting out, whether you are in Banff National Park Jasper National Park, Nordegg/Lake Abraham or traveling somewhere new.

If you have zero experience climbing, or if you have spent many years scaling rock walls – we would love to spend time with you in the mountains! Our guides excel in creating personalized adventures, guaranteed to exceed your expectations, and we would love to meet you where you are at. 

Can a guide teach me to ice climb?

YES. Most ACMG guides climb many days in a year and have many many years experience ice climbing. They are trained to help you learn how to ice climb outdoors. Ice climbing movement is similar, but actually quite different from rock climbing. Learning how to do it well when you start will set you up for success. It is important to use a guide when starting out, whether you are in Banff National Park Jasper National Park, Nordegg/Lake Abraham or traveling somewhere new.

Can anyone hire an ACMG climbing guide in Alberta?

YES! Anyone over the age of 18 can hire a certified ACMG Guide to take them rock climbing, ice climbing, alpine climbing and teach them companion and self rescue skills. Guides can operate in many areas of the province including Canmore, Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Nordegg & Lake Abraham. The minimum age for guests is 12.

How much does a climbing guide cost?

For 1:1 Guide to guest ratio, prices start at $549 in summer and $595 in winter and go up from there. Prices for group programs can be a lot less per person. Please contact us at booking@girthhitchguiding.ca for more pricing details.