5 epic climbing destinations in Southern Ontario

Found along the Niagara Escarpment, just a short drive from the Greater Toronto Area, Rattlesnake Point is one of the most popular rock climbing spots in Ontario. Shrouded by a canopy of trees, its 235 varied routes can be accessed by a relatively short hike and are ideal for top-rope and trad climbing.

Offering more than 200 routes, Mount Nemo is another popular stretch of the Escarpment, not far from Rattlesnake Point, and is known among climbers for its incredible views of the surrounding fields. This crag is significantly larger than any other in the Halton region, however, the long hike in and top-rope ban constrain its popularity to a more select group of experienced and adventurous climbers.

Located on the Bruce Peninsula, along Georgian Bay, Lion’s Head is stunning outcrop of limestone that offers incredible sport climbing. Of course nothing good comes free, and although many routes have been extended to the ground and a gulley at the east end of the cliff provides access to its base, many of the routes have historically been accessed by repelling in and climbing out.

Bon Echo Provincial Park is best known for Mazinaw Rock, which rises a stunning 100 meters out of Mazinaw Lake. The exposure and length of the routes along these granite cliffs are a huge draw for those interested in a multi-pitch climb — there’s no top-roping here. In fact, the start of the routes is generally at water level. To access the cliff, climbers are required to go to the park’s entrance to disclose they’ll be climbing, where they can also rent a canoe, or to join the Alpine Club of Canada, which is equipped with a boat.

Perched more than 150 metres above the Beaver Valley and the small town of Kimberly, Old Baldy is one of the oldest sport climbing crags in Southern Ontario. Located a little further north in the Grey Highlands, it’s yet another product of the Niagara Escarpment, offering stunning views and nearly 100 routes of varying grades.