Real Rock: Climbing, cancellations and community

By Tyler Jay

It shouldn’t come as a surprise to any local reading this article that one of the qualities that make Revelstoke such an amazing little place is the accessibility to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for fast flowing water, loose dirt trails, alpine peaks, or steep quartzite walls, simply walk out your door and drive 10 minute minutes in any direction. The climbing in Revelstoke is one of Western Canada’s hidden gems. With over 700 established routes and more developed each year, the quality of the rock, variety of climbs, and easy access make it a climbing destination in its own right.

Revelstoke’s climbing community is one that is growing and passionate about their sport, but also one that tends to be fragmented. With so many easily accessed areas, it’s rare to see more than three other climbing parties in one area. While this fact is certainly a positive, it doesn’t bode well for trying to integrate a community. Unlike many other mountain towns and cities, in Revelstoke no community climbing gym brings us together under a shared roof. There aren’t many festivals and events, and new climbers often learn and gain experience if they happen to have that one friend that climbs.

Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell after a speed attempt on the nose of El Cap, Yosemite NP, California. Photo: Austin Siadak

The sport is often dictated by the weather … especially in a town that doesn’t have an indoor climbing gym! This year, both Rumble in the Jungle (bouldering festival) and the Sendtember Stoketacular, which aimed to raise awareness for the Multiplex (an indoor gym and fitness facility) were unfortunately cancelled due to the rain.

But fear not! On Friday, November 22, Reel Rock 14, a climbing film festival, delivers all the heart-pounding, sweaty-palm, exhilarating feel of climbing, in the warm embrace of a comfortable theatre chair – and the bonus is that the rain isn’t going to ruin parade! This event strives to promote the growth of this community by giving the opportunity for both climbers and non-climbers alike to be inspired, learn something new, and have a bit of fun!

This year Reel Rock will again be supporting the Climbers Access Society, an organization that maintains and increases public access to the beautiful climbing areas surrounding Revelstoke. This past seasons projects saw washroom facilities built at both Echo Bay and Big Eddy Boulders. The boulders also saw the addition of a new parking area and access society members helped participate in a site clean up. The access society routinely promotes stewardship of the developed climbing areas with trail maintenance, hardware replacement, and general clean up.

Reel Rock Revelstoke showcases athletes pushing the limits, innovating approaches, and breaking barriers physically and culturally. The night features a ton of great prizes from many local sponsors, hilarious crowd-immersed competitions, and of course delicious beverages from our very own Mt. Begbie Brewing Co.

Tickets are available for purchase at Valhalla Pure in Revelstoke. Reel Rock 14 is at the Roxy Theatre on Friday, November 22. Tickets are $20.