Which Climbing and Cave Attractions are Near Calgary?

There are so many great climbing and cave attractions near Calgary that it's a shame if you don't try one! There are so many great ways to get outdoors, get active and enjoy a bonding experience with family or friends.

Whether you're seeking rock climbing, caving or a ropes course, you can enjoy these things at locations like Mt. Norquay and Mt. Yamnuska or take lessons with Nakoda Lodge and Yamnuska Mountain Adventures in Canmore. Here is a look at these and more offering ropes courses, climbing and cave attractions near you.

Caving

Have you ever wanted to check out some of the unbelievable cave experiences in the area? Check out Canmore Caverns Ltd, a company that is offering a great cave experience. They'll take you to Rat's Nest Cave located under Grotto Mountain. Don't worry; there are not rats there anymore. Pack was the meaning behind the name.

There is a “laundry chute” that you have to check out and even if you're feeling claustrophobic, your guides will coach you through it. You'll be wearing hard hats and climbing gear as you explore this cave excursion.

The Cave at Grotto Mountain, with both adventure and explorer programs, provides a physically challenging experience for participants as young as 10. No previous experience is necessary, and all equipment is provided. Experienced guides lead participants into the heart of the grotto to discover unique mineral formations of stalactites and stalagmites, fossil bones and a crystal clear pool. The adventures begin with an above-ground hike and last either 4.5 or 6 hours; the longer tour includes a rappelling experience with a drop of about 18m.

Unfortunately, access to the famous Ice Cave at Plateau Mountain has been blocked for safety reasons for almost a decade. But there are still many opportunities for outdoor adventure around Calgary and throughout southern Alberta.

Climbing Lessons

You can learn rock climbing before tackling a real adventure by working with an experienced guide at Yamnuska Mountain Adventures in Canmore. They'll offer you lessons to prepare for your rock climbing excursion. Learn the ropes and then work your way to multi-pitch climbs on Cascade or Mt. Yamnusaka while learning at the Banff, Canmore and Lake Louise. It'll be exhilarating and beneficial for future trips.

Rock Climbing

Prairie Creek

There are seven separate sections at this destination near Bragg Creek. Park at the Beaver Lodge lot and walk about 30 minutes along the Powderface Creek Trail to access the sport climbing routes. There is minimal traffic, many of the routes have extremely well-placed bolts, and the difficulty ratings are typically 5.10 or harder.

White Buddha

White Buddha offers mainly bouldering with a few sport climbs. However, many of the landings are noted as very rough, so climbers are urged to bring crash pads and spotters. This area is also situated near Bragg Creek; There may be some walking involved, but there are also unique challenges to be had.

Kid Goat

This newer climbing area on Goat Mountain near Cochrane offers excellent climbs, most of which will require about 63 metres of rope, and two-rope techniques are deemed best. Location lat and long are 51.11689, -115/13406. There is a paved parking lot, but note that the nearby Francis Cooke Landfill is not to be used as a way to the climbing areas, even if gates are open! Use only the path on the outside of the fence. Trespassers are subject to arrest and prosecution.

Climbing at Mount Norquay

With the new mountaineering phenomenon, “via ferrata,” you can now use the lines and fastened bolts found here featuring a cross between climbing and scrambling while in a harness on the mountain. A guide takes a small group to Banff National Park and you'll work your way up the rocky cliffs and outcrops.

The harness is clipped into an anchoring system of ladders, cables and a suspension bridge. When you reach the top, unclip and enjoy the view. Kicking Horse Mountain Resort will be opening a via ferrata this summer as well.

Lastly, check out the Nakoda Ropes Course offered at the Nakoda Lodge of Highway 1A where you'll try challenging obstacles 10 metres above ground.

Indoor Gyms

For climb preparation and practicing techniques, Calgary also boasts a number of fine indoor gyms with climbing walls and boulders, among them Shawnessy YMCA, Westside Regional Recreation Centre and the University of Calgary. Many of them welcome kids and beginners, and charge minimal user fees. Some offer access to a variety of recreational activities for a single fee. If going to the gym is not an option, there are many pieces of exercise equipment to workout at home available at a reasonable cost. All it takes is a little motivation and dedication to get ready for your climb.