Multi-Pitch Rock Climbing
Rock climbing in the Canmore/Banff area on one of its many excellent venues can be a trip itself, combined with instructional days or an excellent warm up for one of the many larger rock climbing objectives in the area (see Rockies Mountaineering section). Or cragging in Golden before heading to the Bugaboos or Rogers Pass can also be a great start to your trip if you are based there.
What To Bring
Cost Per Day Multi-Pitch Rock Climbing
2 People Maximum
1 Person $650 per person
2 People $800 or $400 per person
From April to November, weather permitting
*Please add 5% sales tax to the above amounts.
*There may be additional expenses such as food, gear rental, park fees, transportation or accommodation.
*Full-day and multi-day trips available.
Guiding Ratios
Larger more complex objectives are often guided 1:1, while smaller less technical objectives may be guided at a higher ratio. For mountaineering trips with minimal technical terrain, larger groups can be accommodated. Get in touch with us to discuss your options.
Surcharge for Bigger Objectives
For larger objectives or routes with increased hazards, there may be an additional charge applied to your booking. Mountaineering/Alpine Rock days that exceed 10 hours in length, rock climbs that are longer than 400 meters, or ice climbs graded WI5 or higher are good examples of when this surcharge would apply. You may also need to demonstrate the ability and experience required to your guide. Prep days or training days are not uncommon and can be arranged to see if you’re ready for your chosen BIG route. Surcharge amount can be $200.00 or more per day. Please contact us if you think your BIG route may fall into this category.
Mount Yamnuska, the first peak of significant vertical relief viewed when driving from Calgary to Canmore. Its south face hosts enough routes to keep you climbing for a life time. A steep one hour approach on a well used hiking trail is used to access the climbing. Popular outings are Grillmairs Chimney 5.5, Windy Slabs 5.6, Forbidden Corner 5.8, The Kahl Wall 5.10a and Dreambed 11a.
Ha Ling Peak, is hard to miss from Canmore with its extreme looking North face. Just around the corner on its NE shoulder lies an all time classic rated 5.6. Unfortuneatly the trail is under construction for the 2019 season.
Mount Rundle with its close proximity to Canmore and a short approach is a great rock climbing venue. The routes on Rundle’s East end go from 5.6 traditional (guides route) to 5.11a sport multi pitch.
The Ghost Valley hosts the highest quality rock climbing in the area. This venue can be used as a trip by itself if the weather is not cooperating in the taller ranges. Camping near the Ghost River with endless limestone faces towering overhead can certainly add an alpine ambiance. Classic Ghost climbs are Bonanza, 5.8 or The Wraith, 5.10a, with many more 5.10 and 5.11 classics. Four wheel drive high clearance vehicles are recommended for this trip. Ask your guide about this if you do not have one. Arrangements can usually be made with an additional charge. Highly recommended.
Other Bow Valley climbing venues close to the road rock are Nanny Goat, Kid Goat, Cascade Mountain.
Rock climbing in the Golden area although not very well known has all the makings of outstanding rock climbing. From moderate limestone to 5.11b quartzite multi pitch in beautiful alpine settings. Ask your guide about these venues and possibly combining them with a Bugaboos or Rogers Pass trip.
Photo top of page: Travel Alberta
Mountain Photos: Wikimedia