Here's how to get into outdoor rock climbing in Calgary this spring

Mar 6 2019, 3:37 am

Calgary is in close proximity to one of the world’s most beautiful, natural playgrounds: The Rocky Mountains.

While going for hikes, strapping on the skis, or casting out a fishing line is all well and good, nothing brings you (literally) closer to the mountains than scaling up those rocky walls.

You don’t have to be the most intensely fit person in the world to try your hands at outdoor rock climbing – though we’re sure it would help – but you do need to have a basic understanding of the ropes, crags, harnesses, carabiners, knots, and belays that will come between you and a serious injury.

Luckily enough, there are plenty of classes, courses, and training guides available around the area to get you ready for your first outdoor route this spring.

Good luck!

Calgary Climbing Centre

What: Before heading outdoors to those rough, rocky surfaces, it’s always a good idea to spend some time at an indoor climbing centre to learn the basics.

Where: Multiple locations around Calgary

Cost: $19 for adult day pass

Calgary Climbing Centre lead lesson

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What: Try out some outdoor climbing with Calgary Climbing Centre. They’ll provide all the necessary equipment, and you’ll be able to lead climb a natural surface during the full day course.

Cost: $225

Registration: Book online or call 403-276-6484

Yamnuska Mountain Adventures outdoor rock intro

What: This one may be a bit of a ways away from Calgary, but that’s where all the best mountains are! The two-day course will see you learning the basics, including top rope, lead climbing, belaying, hazard evaluation, and the multi-pitch system. Anyone hoping to extend their course can pay a bit extra to go on a guided multi-pitch climb with an instructor the following day.

Cost: $425.

Registration: Book online

Mountain Sense rock climbing intro courses

What: Mountain Sense offers it all. From ice-climbing instruction to a family pack for intro rock climbing, there’s a suitable course for everyone to get outdoors. The single person, full-day rock climbing beginner class covers technique with a certified ACMG instructor, and the custom courses are located in Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise.

Cost: $350 for half day training course

Registration: Email [email protected], or call 403-707-5566

DH Calgary StaffDH Calgary Staff

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