Access Information
Since the 1950’s, climbers have been bouldering around Alberta, but it hasn’t been until recently that significant effort has been put into documenting and greatly expanding the sport. Western Alberta hosts some amazing bouldering, the word is getting out, and areas are continually being developed. WABA looks forward to continuing helping this expansion, and working to help educate, maintain and develop bouldering areas in a sustainable manner.
Safety
Rock climbing is inherently dangerous. Accidents can, and do happen. Bouldering outside contains additional dangers as you are not in a controlled environment, and landings can be challenging. Please ensure to assess climbs and fall zones, climb within your ability, and ensure to climb with plenty of pads and spotters. Getting involved with our Facebook and Discord groups is a great way to meet people to share knowledge, gear and spotting.Guidebooks and Resources
The most recent full guidebook for Alberta is the Alberta Bouldering guidebook by Mike Hopkins and Ian Holmes published in 2021. This book is a good starting resource but can be out of date in specific areas and has some errors. Some updates and mini guides have been created by the community, these can be found either online in the Facebook or Discord groups or by purchasing a physical mini guide from WABA or Scott Eveleigh. Scott has also put up a large amount of the most popular areas onto KAYA, a subscription based phone app. Also, some other logging websites like The Topo (formerly 27 crags) and Sendage have limited but often useful information.Area Access
Bouldering in Western Alberta typically occurs in provincial or national parks. Please ensure to follow the park requirements for the location you are in. More information for each location can be found in the links below: Alberta Provincial Parks, Banff National Park, Yoho National Park. Please do not trespass on private land, and contact WABA if there are areas you’d like to work on for access.Accommodations
There are plenty of accommodation options that can be found in the different cities and parks, and more information can be found through google and the different park websites. Ensure to book early and places tend to fill up quite quickly. If you are planning to random camp or van camp, please ensure to follow the rules for the areas you are looking to stay.Climbing Resources
There are plenty of great climbing gyms in Alberta. A list can be found at indoorclimbing.com. There are plenty of climbing supply stores located in the major cities, and found via google. It’s important to note that it is currently hard to find boulder mat rentals, but with the new guidebook and increase in climbing popularity, we estimate this will change quickly.Climbing Code
WABA is proud to support the Rock Respect Climber’s Code:Respect Dangers
Respect the Environment
Respect Others
Respect Access