The sunny Okanagan is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts – including rock climbers and mountaineers. With arguably the best weather in Western Canada, the Okanagan Valley also offers the longest climbing season in the province, perfect for exploring the Skaha Bluffs, one of the most popular rock climbing destinations in BC, or Mount Robson Provincial Park.
Skaha Bluffs and Mount Robson Provincial Park
The Skaha Bluffs are the second-most popular climbing destination in BC. Located just outside Penticton, they are a series of cliffs ranging up to 80 m (250 ft) providing climbers, hikers and sightseers with an excellent view of Penticton, Skaha Lake and the Okanagan Valley. In Kelowna, the area known as The Crags offer a series of challenging, sporty climbs; the volcanic conglomerate on Mount Boucherie has several interesting climbs; The Boulderfield has over 100 established routes along with outstanding bouldering problems; and Ellison Provincial Park, on the shores of Okanagan Lake, has small granite cliffs with a moderate degree of difficulty along with some excellent bouldering.
Mount Robson Provincial Park is home to Canada's famous mountain. Standing nearly 4,000 meters (almost 13,000 ft) Mount Robson is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and a challenging and coveted goal of climbers from around the world. The mountaineering, climbing and hiking opportunities in this park are nearly limitless.
Climbs for All Skill Levels
Skaha Bluffs are home to over 650 known routes ranging from 5.8 to 5.12 (according to the Yosemite Decimal System, the North American rating system. This equates to easier, to intermediate climbs). The large number of climbs – many well bolted and protected – makes the area ideal for beginner and intermediate climbers. There are enough challenges for advanced climbers as well – both The Great White Wall and The Doctor's Wall offer vertical and overhanging cliffs and many sport routes in the 5.11 to 5.12 range. Outdoor Activities in the Okanagans
The Thompson Okanagan is truly a playground for the outdoor adventurer. The area's many lakes and rivers are popular for waterskiing, rafting, canoeing, wakeboarding and houseboating, or try 2,000 feet of vertical at a resort mountain bike park or spend the day at a championship golf course. 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. Had a Great BC Rock Climbing or Mountaineering Experience?
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