Did you know there is climbing within driving distance EAST of Regina?! Come join us in the Canadian Shield of northwestern Ontario for some fantastic climbing on Sept 6 and 7 (driving on Sept 5 and 8). On this trip, we’ll visit the Goosenecks area north of Kenora, ON, where there are six crags plus two well developed bouldering areas all in close proximity.

The crags, parking, and camping are approximately 3 hours east of Winnipeg, 1 hour from Kenora, and 9.5 hours from Regina.

For rope climbing, the grades at the Goosenecks range from 5.6 to 5.12, so there’s fun for everyone. This crags are also accessible from the top, so leaders can set up top-rope routes at higher grades than we would lead, which means people can try some different grades and styles of climbing that you don’t often see in the gym. Leaders will be available to mentor participants on setting up and cleaning anchors, if desired.

If you’re a boulderer – you’re in luck – bouldering is also an option this year! Goosenecks is home to some great bouldering in the V0-V8 range, and we know you won’t be disappointed!

This trip is beginner friendly for rope climbers (gym top-rope experience required), and moderate for boulderers (good indoor experience, to ensure everyone’s safety).

Cost: 

The trip cost is $50 per person. An active ACC Great Plains membership is required for each participant. Camping is on Crown land and therefore available at no cost. Boulderers may need to share the cost of renting crash pads, if enough aren’t available within the group.

Travel and Accommodations: 

We will coordinate carpooling; camping is available for free on nearby Crown land, located approximately 5 minutes from the cliff down Cygnet Lake Road. The road is viewable on mapping applications for easy access, but directions and photos will also be provided to participants in the pre-trip communications. The camping area has space for approximately 15 tents, a pit toilet, and fire pit. The area also edges onto Gooseneck Lake and people can bathe/cool off in the lake so long as biodegradable materials are used.

Gear: 

Gear requirements for rope climbers include climbing shoes, a harness, and helmet (mandatory). For boulderers, climbing shoes and chalk will be key; please bring your own crash pads, if you have them, as the club has a limited number available.  The club also has a limited number of harnesses and helmets, as well as several backpacking tents and backpacks,  available at no cost to participants on a first-come first-served basis. Please indicate on your trip application if you wish to borrow club gear. A recommended packing list will be provided to confirmed trip participants.

Meals: 

Participants will provide for themselves. Meal planning will not be included by the trip leaders.

Participants and Trip Application: 

Due to limited resources, people will likely only be able to participate in bouldering OR rope climbing, not both. Applicants must indicate their interest when applying. To apply, contact Brianna at briannawyn@icloud.com with the subject line ACC KENORA and provide the following information. Note that incomplete applications will not be considered, so please take care to answer all eight application questions in your email. The final number of spots available on the trip will be established once leader participation is confirmed in spring 2025.

1. First and last name
2. Phone number
3. ACC Membership Number (must be registered with the Great Plains Section)
4. Emergency contact name and phone number
5. Group: Interested in Bouldering or Rope Climbing
6. Rock climbing experience
7. Any gear you would like to borrow (helmet, harness, etc.)
8. Allergies and medical issues for each participant (will remain confidential)