A world class rock climbing destination…
Famous for their well-preserved wilderness and natural beauty, the Canadian Rockies near Banff and Jasper National parks offer the highest concentration and variety of single and multi-pitch rock climbs in Canada. The limestone & quartzite rock walls surrounding the mountain communities of Canmore, Banff, Lake Lousie, and Jasper boast a lifetime of long quality climbs for you to discover.
Whether you are an individual with specific goals, interested in single or multi-pitch climbs of various difficulties or a group/family looking for a fun day out climbing on rock, we have a program for you. Summit Mountain Guides offers day and multi-day guided rock climbing program in the Canadian Rockies from June through September.
Some of the crags and cliffs we enjoy climbing at in the Bow Valley and Kananaskis country include: the Back of the Lake Crags in Lake Louise, the Grand Sentinel, the Tower of Babel, Guides Rock, Tunnel Mountain, the East end of Rundle, Kanga cliff, Grassy Lakes, Cougar Creek, Heart Creek crags and slabs, Kid Goat, Yamnuska, Barrier bluffs, Wasootch Slabs and more.
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. Some of the longer multi-pitch routes may require an earlier start.
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 Canadian Rockies. We will go over last minute equipment issues, review the planed itinerary and update you with present conditions.
Spring and fall temperatures in the Canadian Rockies 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 and daytime temperatures can vary from 15C to sometime 30c. The average mid-day temperature in the summer usually ranges from 20C to 25C. 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.
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 fully certified IFMGA/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 the Canadain Rockies that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.
Calgary:
Mountain Equipment Coop www.mec.ca
Canmore:
Valhalla Pure Outfitters www.shop.vpo.ca
Vertical Addiction www.vertical-addiction.com
Banff:
Monod Sports www.monodsports.com
Lake Louise:
Wilson Mountain Sports www.lakelouisewilsons.com
Golden:
Higher Grounds Sports www.highergroundssports.ca
