Ready to Climb? Explore Vancouver’s Climbing Scene
Safety First: Your Guide to Rock Climbing Basics
Whether you’re just getting started or improving your climbing technique, safety always comes first. This infographic breaks down the key tips and equipment you need to rock climb safely—indoors or outdoors in Vancouver.
Gear Up and Go: What You’ll Need to Climb
The right equipment makes all the difference when you’re climbing in Vancouver.
For indoor gyms, start with climbing shoes, a harness, chalk bag, and belay device — most places rent these to beginners.
If you’re venturing outdoors, don’t forget your helmet, rope, and quickdraws for protection.
Rent what you need at first, then invest in personal gear as you progress.
Having equipment that fits you well will make your climbs safer and more enjoyable.
-Focused on creating a community environment
-Host Free Educational Clinics
-Meetings/Events locations and times vary, typically updated on Social Media
-Discord you can join for direct updates,
-Catered Towards the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community
-5 Meetings/Month, 1 is free, the other 4 are $15
-Meetups are at different times and locations each day between 4:00-7:30pm, 1 Meeting in Surrey, 4 in Vancouver
-Also offers Mentorship Program
-Catered Towards Beginners (AKA) “Bad” Climbers
-8 Meetings/ Month $15-20 each
-Meetups are different times and locations each day between 9am and 7:30pm, between Northshore and Surrey
Top Spots to Climb in Vancouver
Indoors, check out The Hive Bouldering Gym, Climb Base5, or The Aviary for year-round climbing, friendly communities, and expert instructors ready to help you improve your skills. Each location offers a welcoming environment, high-quality routes, and programs for all experience levels — from beginners discovering the sport to advanced climbers refining their technique. Whether it’s a rainy Vancouver day or part of your regular training routine, these gyms are the heart of indoor climbing in Vancouver.
Outdoors, nothing compares to Squamish — the granite capital of Canada, just an hour away.
Closer to the city, Lighthouse Park, Lynn Valley, and Cypress Falls offer scenic and accessible routes.
Outdoors, nothing compares to Squamish — the granite capital of Canada, just an hour away.
Closer to the city, Lighthouse Park, Lynn Valley, and Cypress Falls offer scenic and accessible routes.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned climber, the variety of climbing in Vancouver means there’s always a new wall to conquer.
From First Grip to Pro: Climbing Levels Explained
Climbing in Vancouver welcomes everyone — from total beginners to experienced adventurers.
Start with indoor bouldering or top-rope sessions to learn safety and movement basics.
As you grow, try lead climbing or venture onto outdoor sport routes to challenge yourself.
For advanced climbers, Squamish’s multi-pitch routes and steep boulders deliver world-class tests of skill and endurance.
Wherever you are in your journey, Vancouver’s climbing community and gyms are ready to help you level up safely.