Try Rock
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Adventure type
Rock Climbing
Try ice climbing, learn to rock climb, lead & Multi-Pitch – all in the David Thompson Corridor & Bow Valley, Alberta.
Let’s go outdoor rock climbing!
Rock climbing is a great adventure sport for individuals of all ages and ability levels. Individuals navigate up a route on natural rock formations. Routes vary in steepness and difficulty, with the goal to be able to reach the end of a predetermined route. Beginners often climb what is termed as “top rope” or “sport routes” where a rope is attached on one end to the climber, coming through the top anchor and then connected to the belayer.
Climbers can progress to “lead climbing” – setting the route and building the anchor; “Multi-Pitch climbing” – climbing multiple pitches or sections of a route to reach the predetermined end, and “trad/traditional climbing” – where the climber uses specific equipment to climb routes that include cracks and other natural features. Outdoor rock climbing is highly accessible throughout Canada and North America and a great way to experience the outdoors.
Join us for your next outdoor rock climbing adventure!
Banff Try Rock
Join us for the unforgettable experience of climbing a real rock cliff in Banff National Park.
Lead Rock
Expand your outdoor rock climbing skills while learning to lead climb outside.
Lead Rock Weekends
This two day course includes a high volume of outdoor rock climbing, while expanding your skills in lead climbing and safe falling.
Banff Multi-Pitch Rock
Climb a classic multi-pitch rock route in Banff National Park!
Multi-Pitch Rock Classics
Climb a classic multi-pitch rock route in the Canadian Rocky Mountains!
Rock Safe Weekends
Build a solid foundation in rope rescue. Your climbing team will leave feeling confident to manage unexpected outdoor climbing incidents.
Rock Safe Pro Weekends
Now that you have a solid foundation in rock rescue it’s time to take things to an advanced level. This course focuses on safe and efficient methods to solve complex rescue scenarios.
Multi-Pitch Pro Weekends
Smooth systems make multi-pitch climbing manageable and fun! Take your team’s safety seriously by forming smooth skills that will set you up for success.
Spring Into Rock
Launch your rock climbing season this spring. This value packed course covers three courses in four days. Rock Safe, Lead Rock, and Trad Leader.
Trad Lead Weekends
Make the jump from clipping bolts to placing gear! Take your safety seriously by forming smooth skills while pacing gear on lead.
Frequently asked questions about outdoor rock climbing:
How do I get into outdoor rock climbing?
Rock climbing outdoors is a great sport to get into. Often called “sport climbing”, outdoor rock climbing can be done safely all over Canada. Not sure how to get started? Here are some tips:
- Take a rock climbing course – many guiding companies offer a weekend or day-long courses to introduce individuals to the sport of outdoor rock climbing.
- Invest in climbing equipment – many outdoor sporting stores are equipped with the basic equipment needed to rock climb outdoors.
- Find a climbing partner.
What equipment is needed for outdoor rock climbing?
It is important to have the proper equipment in order to stay safe when outdoor rock climbing. Equipment required to rock climb includes: helmet, harness, rock climbing shoes, and belay device. You will also need a rope and the proper gear to build an anchor point if lead climbing.
How do I stay safe when outdoor rock climbing?
Safety is very crucial when rock climbing outdoors. Some of the hazards climbers may face include rockfall, weather changes (common in the mountains), minor personal injuries, improper use of equipment, and gear failure. That said, there are a number of things climbers could do to mitigate these risks and stay safe.
- Know the area you are climbing in and the possible risks
- Clear the area of any large rocks and similar hazards
- Check safety equipment for breaks, cracks and other signs of damage and wear
- Always wear a helmet
- Always check harness, knots, and belay device
- Bring extra gear and clothing for weather changes
- Take a rock rescue course or similar with a guide or through a local gym
Where can I go outdoor rock climbing in Canada? Alberta?
Canada is home to a range of rock climbing spots. From the west on Vancouver Island to the east in Newfoundland and Labrador, there are a number of great spots to climb all over the country.
The top 5 climbing areas in canada include:
- Squamish
- Skaha Bluffs
- Bugaboos
- Canmore
- Kananaskis
- Niagara Escarpment
Alberta is home to some great rock climbing areas:
- Banff
- Canmore
- Jasper
- Kananaskis
- And our personal favourite spot – Nordegg in David Thompson Country
Need help deciding which trip works for you?