Mother Nature has blessed Vancouverites with a range of fabulous climbing spots. But until this thing called winter blows over, stay warm and dry – and in shape – at one of these indoor climbing gyms.
Cliffhanger
The only climbing gym actually located in Vancouver, Cliffhanger is open till 11 p.m., making it the go-to spot for a mid-week climb. Scale a wall or go bouldering, where you’ll attempt short climbs without a harness over a crash pad. Advanced climbers will appreciate some very challenging route settings. 670 Industrial Ave., 604-874-2400.
The Edge Climbing Centre
This North Van climbing centre offers unconventional classes for newbies and experts alike. Try the physiotherapist-led Feldenkrais Workshop, which helps increase flexibility and awareness of movement. Or start your day with Call o’ the Rooster, an early morning strength-building and conditioning workout. 2 – 1485 Welch St., North Vancouver, 604-984-9080.
The Rock Wall
Your boss is threatening an afternoon of team-building activities; steer clear of the pizza party and suggest the four-hour corporate climbing program at Maple Ridge’s Rock Wall. A little adrenaline never interfered with some trust-building exercises. Plus, when better to ask for a raise than as you’re belaying your boss? 6 – 11455 201A St., Maple Ridge, 604-460-0808.
Laserdome Plus
Offering 14 auto-belay ropes, the wall at this interactive amusement centre is unlikely to satisfy serious climbers. Still, it’s a small price to pay to be able to warm up by running amok in North America’s largest laser tag facility. A110 – 2455 Dollarton Hwy., 604-985-6033.
Image courtesy of Amburn.Everett.
