GET READY FOR CLIMBING AT WILSON'S

Local information and climbing equipment rentals at Wilson's Lake Louise.

Information

Lake Louise has long been known as the birthplace of Climbing and Alpinism in Canada, and steeped in history for good reason. The Swiss Guides, already well versed in professional mountaineering practices from their work in the European Alps, were originally brought to Lake Louise to help promote and expand the sport of mountaineering in the early 1900's. During their tenure, they single handedly put the area on the map for generations of climbers to come. Climbers and Alpinists have been traveling to the area ever since in search of the challenge and adventure the high peaks surrounding our small mountain village consistently provides.

Lake Louise is now home to many modern and classic mountaineering objectives. The most popular of which are found by many immediately surrounding the Lake Louise, Lake O'Hara and Moraine Lake areas. Mountaineering objectives from the iconic Abbott Pass Hut or from the highest habitable dwelling in Canada, the Neil Colgan Hut, often attract the most attention. Due to the extremely high density of enjoyable objectives, the area lends itself well to beginner and expert alike.

Lake Louise is also home to one of the most beautiful and traveled to rock climbing areas in the world. The Back of the Lake. All ability and fitness levels will find something to enjoy on the purple and orange walls of this spectacular rock crag, only a 30min walk around the back of Lake Louise, opposite the Chateau.

Climbers are free to enjoy these areas on their own, but the local experience and knowledge of a certified guide can often be the best way to make the best use of your limited time in the area.

The Lake Louise group is truly one of the gems in the world of alpinism.

RESERVE NOW: 1-866-929-3636

Rentals
Rental  item Price
Axe $10
Helmet $9
Recommended Links:

Weather:

Get localized forecasts for the specific peak your climbing at a variety of elevations.
Go Here to access these forecasts.
Precipitation Model - Very useful to gauge the exact timing and intensity of incoming rain and snow in the Lake Louise area. Very reliable weather product.
Go Here to view the MM5 Precipitation Forecast.
Cloud Cover - Aviation grade forecast model depicting cloud cover in Western Canada. Somewhat technical, and will take a few minutes to learn to read the abbreviations, though when you do, it provides accurate information on precipitation and the specific elevations of cloud tops and ceilings. Very useful information for the high alpine climber.
Go Here to view the GFA Cloud Cover and Precip Forecast.

Guidebooks:

Bow Valley Sport - Darek Galloway
The best guidebook to sport climbing in the Bow Valley. The Lake Louise area in this book also has traditional routes described within. Color photos, actual crag photos. Your best bet for current, relevant information on rock climbing in Lake Louise.
quickdrawpublications.com
Select Alpine Climbs in the Canadian Rockies - Sean Dourghty
The only real option for a guide to mountaineering and alpine climbing objectives in the Canadian Rockies. Well overdue for an update, and historically has been known to sandbag more than a few alpinists. Remembering that the guidebook is just that, a series of suggestions or guidelines will serve you well when using this book. None the less, an in-depth collection of many classic ascents in the Lake Louise area, especially for a "select" book.
www.rmbooks.com