Rock Climbing

Rock climbing in Gatineau Park

The five rock faces open where climbing is permitted are the following:

• Home Cliff — Centre
• Three faces at the Twin Ribs site: Down Under, Eastern Block and Left Rib
• Western Cwm — West

In the winter, ice climbing is permitted when there is enough snow covering the ground and when there is ice on the climbing surfaces. This way, climbers will not damage the vegetation on the ground, on the climbing surfaces and on the rock itself.

Climbers must use only official climbing routes and those trails that are open, and must respect sector closures.

Protect the Eardley Escarpment

The geology and location of the Eardley Escarpment make it an exceptional ecosystem. More than 70 plant and animal species at risk can be found there, including the peregrine falcon, which nests on the Eardley Escarpment and is very sensitive to the presence of humans.

The NCC is working with the Alpine Club of Canada to limit the impact of rock climbing on this unique ecosystem. Users are asked to observe the rules in order to ensure that rock climbing continues to be permitted on the Eardley Escarpment. Offenders will be subject to a fine (or other penalty).

Your Safety, Your Responsibility!

If you engage in rock climbing, you must recognize the following.

• Rock climbing involves risks (e.g. risk of falling) which can cause serious injury and even death.
• The anchors in the rock face were not installed by the NCC, nor are they inspected by the NCC.
• Because of the remoteness of climbing locations, it is possible that you may experience difficulty communicating with emergency services and that these services may take more time to locate and help you if you need assistance.

Only you can assess the risks to which you are exposed. You are responsible for your own safety, as well as for the decisions you make and the actions you take.

Rock climbing code of conduct 

• Ensure that you have the necessary training, knowledge and experience to climb safely.
• Use the appropriate equipment, including protective gear (e.g. helmet), and ensure that it is in good condition.
• Do not use any anchors in the rock unless you have the knowledge and experience to assess whether or not they are safe (i.e. in good condition, appropriately placed and well anchored).
• Do not anchor to trees. It is not permitted in the Park, because it causes damages.
• Choose a route that is within your technical ability.
• Ensure that you are in good health and proper physical condition, and that your mental faculties are not impaired (e.g. by fatigue, medication, alcohol or drugs).
• Check to ensure that weather conditions are favourable for climbing.