
FAQS
At Vertical Adventures we realize that rock climbing may not be as big a part of your lives as it is ours. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions.
Q: Is climbing dangerous?
A: While rock climbing does present certain dangers, at Vertical Adventures we work diligently to eliminate many of the dangers associated with typical outdoor rock climbing. Our equipment is checked regularly and our staff are well trained members of the rock climbing community.
Q: Do I need to make a reservation?
A: The answer to this question is both “yes” and “no”.
First the yes; if you are interested in rock climbing and would like to make a reservation for a large group, possibly for work, school, a non-profit organization, or a birthday party, we recommend making a reservation. The reservation guarantees staff members will be present to hold the ropes for you and your guests allowing you to make use of ALL the walls in the facility. You can make a reservation by clicking on the 'Birthdays/Groups' or 'Schools' tabs above, or calling our facility.
The no; our facility is equipped with automatic belayers (a machine that retracts a cable as you climb), we also have most of the gym set up for bouldering use (where no partner or staff member is needed). While this is a perfect option for most beginners, you will be limited as to which walls you will be able to climb to the top of as staff members cannot be guaranteed. That being said, you will still get to do some serious climbing!
Q: Do I need experience?
A: No! With automatic belayers (a machine that retracts a cable as you climb), and a bouldering area even the most novice climbers can join in on the good time. With a simple 5-10 minute orientation you will find yourself right at home in the facility.
Q: What is the minimum age?
A: We like to say 5 and up.
Q: What should I wear?
A: We are situated in a 5000 square ft. facility. It's hard to heat in the winter and impossible to cool in the summer. Our general train of thought is sweats in the winter, shorts in the summer.
Q: Do I need special shoes?
A: No. Runners generally suffice for most beginner climbers. Please make sure your runners are clean and dry.
Climbing shoes, while not being necessary, do help and we do recommend trying them at some point during one of your visits to the facility.
Q: I had fun. What’s next?
A: At Vertical Adventures we pride ourselves on our knowledge and would love to share it with you. Sign up for any of our courses to learn everything from belaying to basic cliff rescue skills.
It should also be noted that the Canadian shield is home to hundreds of developed rock climbing areas, that the competition climbing scene is growing by leaps and bounds and that essentially any rock face anywhere in the world is our playground. The sky is the limit for what you can do next.
Q: How fit do you have to be to climb?
A: You should probably just get off the internet and march on down here… I'm sure you’ll be fine.