Climbing & Caving

Highlights

Marble Canyon Provincial Park

Known as the "Cinderella of BC Rock" thanks to its relatively undiscovered beauty, Marble Canyon Provincial Park near Lillooet features a maze of limestone canyons with easy access to dozens of climbs. The park's limestone formations are relatively rare for BC, and the terrain is distinguishably different from that of the nearby Coast Mountains, which are composed primarily of granite. Chimney Spire, an awe-inspiring geological formation, dominates the park's weathered peaks.

After your climb, hike to a picturesque waterfall that in winter becomes one of the region's most accessible icefalls — an ideal destination for ice climbers. Or, take a dip in one of the park's three inviting lakes.

Bella Coola Valley

Home to climbs ranging from 5.6 to 5.11+, many of the access points to the Bella Coola routes are on private land, so be sure to ask permission first. The Hunlen Falls Trail Crag offers about eight routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.11+. Head to Tweedsmuir Provincial Park for great bouldering opportunities at the Big Rock. Chilcotin Wall is about 10 kms from Hwy. 20 behind the Gun Range and provides 11 routes ranging from 5.7 to 5.11+, some multi-pitch. Snootley Peak is the huge rock face on the south side of the road about 11 kms from Bella Coola. The Snootley Express is a full 15 pitches of 5.6 to 5.10. The route is set up for rappelling and is highly recommended.

Williams Lake

Three great climbing spots are found in the picturesque Williams Lake area.

The popular Esler Bluffs feature 44 routes, from slabs to overhangs, ranging from 5.5 to 5.11 and up (according to the Yosemite Decimal System, the North American rating system). Look for faded pictographs on the pocketed limestone of Alkali Bluff, where eight climbs range from 5.7 to 5.11 and up. Moon Road Bluff is a low limestone crag whose eight routes offer great views and range from 5.6 to 5.11.

Rock Climbing and Mountaineering Safety

• Beginners should consider basic climbing and belaying instruction in the safe and controlled environment of indoor climbing walls and seek instruction until they are confident and able to attack more challenging routes.
• All climbers and mountaineers – regardless of their level of expertise – must thoroughly investigate, and have a good understanding of all gear, safety and weather-related (eg avalanche safety) requirements prior to setting out on any outdoor excursion of this nature.
• In order to avoid injury, get advice from local guides, clubs or associations before venturing out.
• Also make sure that your travel health insurance is also up to date and includes separate coverage for your chosen activity.

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