Adventure type

Rock Climbing

Try Ice climbing, learn to Rock climb, Lead & multi pitch – all in the David Thompson Corridor and Bow Valley, Alberta.

An example of outdoor lead climbing; building an anchor

Woman learning to lead climb on rock on the David Thompson Corridor, near Nordegg, Alberta

Man multi-pitch rock climb on the David Thompson Corridor, near Nordegg, Alberta

Woman learning to lead climb and place gear on the David Thompson Corridor, near Nordegg, Alberta

Man lowering off a gear rock climb on the David Thompson Corridor, near Nordegg, Alberta

Man top rope climbing on the David Thompson Corridor, near Nordegg, Alberta

Woman trying top-rope rock climbing on the David Thompson Corridor, near Nordegg, Alberta

Multi pitch climbing belay setup for belaying the second climber

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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!

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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.