Daily guided rock climbs far from the crowds, this area offers variety and quality climbs…
Located in South-Eastern British Columbia, The vibrant communities of Nelson & Castlegar are home to some of the finest rock climbing the BC interior. Their geographical locations 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 800 sports routes to choose from.
Consider some local multi-pitch routes that we have established in the community including: “The Date” on Pulpit Rock, Nelson, “Megawatts” near Brilliant Dam, Castlegar, and “Whitewater Rocks”, moderate alpine rock climbing near Nelson.
Summit Mountain Guides offers various 1 to 5-day rock climbing programs in the Nelson and West Kootenay area. Some of the rock sites 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 crags like Pulpit rock, Woodbury bluff and Ymir bluffs.
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 opportunities abound for all experience levels.
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 planned itinerary and update you with present conditions.
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 tend 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 afternoon thundershowers. Be sure to pack a ball cap, sunglasses along with sunscreen and extra water especially during the summer season, see equipment list for specific details.
What’s included:
- Pre-trip planning & support
- Fully certified IFMGA, ACMG Alpine & Aprentice Guides services
- Over 30 years of experience in the area
- Alternative plan based on current conditions
- All technical safety gear
- Rope use & all technical equipment
- Park permits and Liability Insurance
- Emergency response plan
- Group safety equipment
Services NOT included:
- 5% gst tax
- personal clothing *see equipment list for more details
- personal lunch & snacks
- Personal climbing gear; harnesses, helmets, belay device and rock shoes
- park passes if required
- travel to meeting location and accommodation prior to field portion trip
- gratuities
- trip interruption, cancellation insurance or medical insurance
- additional costs incurred if changes made to itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances
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 challenge for everyone including the most experienced!
Is it safe?
For all of our climbing programs and courses, SMG provides you with certified IFMGA or ACMG Mountain, alpine and rock guides. This guarantees 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 their 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.
ROAM shop www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters www.shop.vpo.ca
