This winter, ditch the weights and go climbing: It offers the muscle and endurance-building perks of the gym – with an extra hit of adrenaline. Here, Calgary’s top five indoor rock climbing spots.
Mount Royal University
With over 100 courses offered annually, plus a whack of private lessons, the Climbing Centre will have you Munter hitching in no time. The integrated rappel and rescue tower are great for advanced climbers. 825 Mount Royal Gate SW, 403-440-6348, $10.
Calgary Climbing Centre Chinook
This sprawling facility offers 45 ropes, a 40-foot lead wall and a bouldering cave with hundreds of holds. No partner? No problem. Drop in on Thursday nights and uber-friendly staff will belay for you. Open till 11 p.m. to 6 – 7130 Fisher Rd. SE, 403-252-6778. $15.24 (day pass).
Stronghold
If long routes make you salivate, Stronghold’s 70 options will keep you happy. The bouldering room changes seasonally, and the proximity to downtown means you can squeeze in a lunchtime climb. 140 15th Ave NW, 403-276-6484. $15.24 (day pass).
The Crux Climbing and Bouldering
Sometimes, bigger is better; this 12,000 square foot space includes multi-pitch and rappelling areas, 3,000 square feet of bouldering and a 72-foot high beast of a wall. Bay 9, 1415, 28 St N.E., 403-235-CRUX. $15.24 (day pass).
University of Calgary
Molded concrete panels and quartzite blocks make this Calgary’s closest thing to an outdoor climb experience. There’s also an Entreprise wall with fixed draws and a bouldering gym. Great for newbies. 2500 University Drive NW, 403-220-5038. $25 (includes lesson, gear rental and belay test).
Image courtesy of Claudio Brisighello on Flickr.
