Trip Dates
April to October (on demand)
Price
Half day $70/person for 3, $100/person for 2 ($200 private) Full day $100/person for 3, $150/person for 2 ($300 private) *multi-pitch routes +$50
Group Size
Reduced rates for organized group of 4+; up to 6 people *mulit-pitch routes max 2-3 guests
Skill Level
All levels welcome
Related Trips
More Guided Rock Climbing
Rock Climbing Courses
Alpine Rock
Canadian Mountaineering
Nelson Rock Climbing
Far from the crowds, the Nelson area offers a great variety of quality climbs...
Located in South-Eastern British Columbia, The vibrant comunity of Nelson is home to some of the finest rock climbing the BC interior. Its geographical location gives quick access to fantastic rock climbing in the Purcells, Monashees and Selkirks mountains. The area offers an interesting variety of sound rock types from granite or gniess to limestone.
The climbing here is remote and offers many quality single and multi-pitch rock climbs far from the crowds. The Nelson and Castlegar areas have seen significant rock climbing development in recent years and with the publication of the new West Kootenay Rock guide, climbers have more than 400 sports routes to choose from.
Consider some local multipitch routes, David has put up near Nelson including:
“The Date” on Pulpit Rock, Nelson (half day climb; 3 pitches) *for map and route description
“Megawatts” near Brillant Dam, Castlegar (full day climb, 8 pitches) *for map and route description
Summit Mountain Guides offers various 1 to 5 day rock climbing programs in the Nelson and West Kootenay area. Some of the rock site we climb at include: Kinnard Bluffs, Brilliant Bluff and the Waterline near Castlegar, Slocan Bluffs, Koch Creek slabs, Cougars Creek Bluffs and Skydome in the Slocan valley and various other local craggs like Pulpit rock, Woodbury bluff and Ymir bluffs.
Itinerary
Day rock climbing itineraries are somewhat flexible. A typical guided rock climbing day will start around 8:00 AM at a local cragg. Depending on group needs and particular climbs, we will generally be done before 5.00 PM.
Prerequisites
These guided outings are for climbers of all abilities. No previous climbing experience required. Previous outdoor or indoor climbing experience is an asset. Join us and safely learn this exciting sport from our skilled instructors. Learning oportunities abound for all experience levels.
Equipment
rock-climbing-equipment-list.doc
Weather
Spring and fall temperatures in the West Kootenays can vary wildly from 0C to +20C during the day. Conditions can change from warm sunshine to isolated showers quickly. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind and precipitation tends to change within the day.
Summer (July and August) tend to be more predictable but can be very hot. The average mid-day temperature in the summer usually ranges from +20C to +30C. A lightweight rain and/or wind shell can come in petty handy in the event of an afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water specially during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.
Location
Participants will be meeting with the guide at 8:00 AM at a pre-establish outdoor rock climbing site in the West Kootenays. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.
Services Included
- Pre-trip planning support
- Fully certified IFMGA and/or ACMG Rock and Alpine guide services
- 15 years of experience in the area
- Alternative plan based on current conditions
- All technical equipment
- Emergency response plan
- Group safety equipment
FAQ
How experienced do I need to be?
On these guided trips, no previous climbing experience is required. Climbs will be selected based on participants ability and previous experiences. There is a challange for everyone including the most experienced!
Is it safe?
For all of our climbing programs and courses, SMG provides you with fully certified IFMGA/ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guaranties you the highest safety standards in the Canadian and international industry. Rock climbing remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.
Do I need any of my own climbing equipment?
On these guided outings, participant require all thier personal equipment; harnesses, helmets, rock shoes, belay device and carabiners. Summit Mountain Guides has a limited selection of equipment available for rental at affordable rates. Let us know if you need any particular gear/sizes or if you plan to bring your own.
Where can I rent/buy climbing & outdoor equipment?
Summit Mountain Guides has a limited amount of equipment available for rental. Contact us for availability. Here are a few outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.
Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
