Getting Outside: Learning to Climb Outdoors

Transitioning from indoor gym climbing to outdoor crag climbing has a steep learning curve.

We recommend that new outdoor climbers find experienced mentors or guides who can show them the ropes. Some of our corporate members are guiding companies. We do not endorse any guiding companies.

In Ontario, climbing guides hold various certifications. No certification is required to operate a guiding service. Certifying bodies include the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG), the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), and the Professional Climbing Guides Institute (PCGI). We strongly recommend that climbers investigate the requirements for the certifications held by any guides that they hire.

The OAC’s core mandate and Code of Ethics involve minimizing climber impact on our shared outdoor spaces. All outdoor climbers, new and old, should learn how to minimize their impact by familiarizing themselves with the following guidelines.  

View Gym to Crag Guidelines (PDF) (used with permission from Access Fund)