Top 5 Rock Climbing Gyms in Ottawa for Your Adrenaline Fix
My adventurous friends are visiting Ottawa soon, eager to explore the city and try something new.
They’ve always loved outdoor activities, and this time they’re bringing their kids along, hoping to find something everyone can enjoy together.
Knowing their love for a good challenge, I immediately thought of rock climbing. It’s the perfect mix of thrill and fitness, offering a way for them to push their limits while having fun as a family.
But finding the right spot isn’t easy, especially when you need a place that caters to both seasoned climbers and beginners, young and old.
That’s when I decided to dive into the top rock climbing gyms in Ottawa. And no, I didn’t try these in one go—these are year-round experiences.
All these facilities offer a variety of climbing options, a friendly community, and a safe environment for everyone to enjoy.
1. Altitude Gym
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Website: https://altitudegym.ca/
Location: 501 Palladium Dr #0E5
Contact Details: (613) 903-5989
Monthly Membership Fee: $85 (Adult), $70 (Youth/Student)
Business Hours:
- Mon to Fri: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Sat & Sun: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Altitude Gym began its journey in October 2010, transforming an old church in Gatineau into a vibrant playground for climbers of all levels.
This quirky and unique setting quickly became a hotspot for innovation and excellence within the climbing community.
But here’s the exciting part—they offer an eclectic mix of rock climbing activities. From the raw intensity of bouldering to the heart-pounding thrill of lead climbing, there’s something for everyone.
What’s even better? Each facility is crafted with care to welcome both rookies and seasoned pros alike.
Whether you’re a solo adventurer making use of the auto-belays or a seasoned climber honing your skills in specialized training areas, there’s a spot just for you.
And the fun doesn’t stop there! The Clip ‘N Climb zone, with its colorful, themed walls, adds a splash of whimsy to your climbing experience.
Pro tip:
Warm up in the zen room before climbing to boost your performance and prevent injuries.
2. Coyote Rock Gym
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Website: https://coyoterockgym.ca/
Location: 1737B St. Laurent Blvd
Contact Details: (613) 216-4640
Monthly Membership Fee: $75 (Adult), $65 (Youth/Student)
Business Hours:
- Mon to Fri: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Sat & Sun: 11:00 am – 9:00 pm
Coyote Rock Gym, born in 1992, proudly stands as Ottawa’s first dedicated rock climbing hub. Founded by the dynamic duo Greg Lipin and Jody Miall, this gym artfully blends old-school grit with modern climbing vibes.
The highlight? Over 17,000 square feet of adrenaline-pumping fun, featuring five bouldering zones and 40 top rope and lead walls, including some gravity-defying overhung roofs.
Coyote Rock Gym rolls out the red carpet for climbers of all levels, from newbies to seasoned pros. Safety is top-notch, making it a secure playground for both kids and adults.
Plus, their Guaranteed Partner System (GPS) ensures you never climb solo during peak hours, making it super easy to buddy up.
And for families, here’s something special. They have youth programs designed to be both engaging and challenging, offering kids the chance to develop their climbing skills in a nurturing and fun environment.
Pro tip:
If you’re new to climbing, try an intro course at Coyote Rock Gym. It’s the perfect way to learn the basics and gain confidence.
3. OCR Academy – Obstacle Course Training
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Website: https://www.ocracademy.ca/
Location: 1140 Morrison Dr #106b
Contact Details: (613) 726-0909
Monthly Membership Fee: $129 per month (Adult), $99 per month (Youth)
Business Hours:
- Mon to Fri: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sat: 8:45 AM – 6:30 PM
- Sun: 10:00 am – 6:30 PM
If you’re ready to tackle some serious fun, OCR Academy is your new go-to spot for obstacle course training! This place is all about pushing limits and having a blast while you’re at it.
Among their standout features is their impressive rock climbing setup. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a climbing pro, they’ve got routes that will challenge you and help you reach new heights—literally!
But what sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to safety. Their experienced staff ensures that every climb is as secure as it is exhilarating.
With thorough safety checks and expert guidance, you can tackle those challenging routes knowing you’re in good hands.
Plus, OCR Academy is perfect for anyone looking to mix up their workout routine or just have a great time with friends and family.
Pro tip:
New to obstacle courses or rock climbing? Jump into their beginner classes and workshops first to build your skills and boost your confidence step by step.
4. Dovercourt Recreation Centre
— Media credit: dovercourt411
Website: https://www.dovercourt.org/
Location: 411 Dovercourt Ave
Contact Details: (613) 798-8950
Monthly Membership Fee: $65 (Adult), $55 (Youth/Student)
Business Hours:
- Mon to Fri: 8:00 am – 8:30 pm
- Sat & Sun: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Since 1987, Dovercourt Recreation Centre has been a cornerstone of the Ottawa community, offering an extensive range of programs that promote health, wellness, and connection.
Their mission is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals and families can thrive through accessible and engaging activities.
One of the center’s standout features is its rock climbing wall, designed to accommodate climbers of all ages and abilities.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, Dovercourt provides a safe and exhilarating environment.
Aside from that, they have climbing programs led by experienced instructors who focus on safety and skill development, making it a perfect activity for personal growth and family fun.
Pro tip:
For the best rock climbing experience, take advantage of Dovercourt’s drop-in sessions—perfect for spontaneous climbs and sharpening your skills at your own pace!
5. Laws of Motion
— Media credit: sweatspott
Website: https://www.lomtumbling.ca/
Location: 2215 Gladwin Crescent
Contact Details: (613) 693-0363
Monthly Membership Fee: $90 (Adult), $75 (Youth/Student)
Business Hours:
- Mon to Thu: 4:00 am – 11:00 pm
- Fri: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Sat & Sun: Closed
Laws of Motion Tumbling & Acro kicked off with a mission to boost physical fitness and acrobatic skills through a well-crafted program.
Fast forward a bit, and it’s now the go-to spot for athletes of all ages, where growth and confidence are built with every flip and tumble.
Their thrilling rock climbing program is perfect whether you’re just starting out or already scaling new heights.
With routes that are both challenging and inspiring, climbers get to level up their skills in a place that’s as safe as it is supportive.
And let’s not forget about the killer rock climbing facilities. With walls that vary in height and difficulty, these state-of-the-art setups make sure every climber has the tools and training they need to crush their goals.
Plus, when you dive into the programs at Laws of Motion, you’re also building mental toughness and finding your place in a community that’s all about lifting each other up—literally and figuratively!
Pro tip:
Explore flexible pricing packages, including drop-in rates for those spur-of-the-moment sessions, monthly memberships for regulars, and great discounts when you bundle multiple classes.