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Things To Know

Find below a selection of useful information for anyone planning to climb with us. Including FAQ's, what to bring on your outting, and more!

What should I bring for my Instructional Course?

​We can provide personal safety equipment if necessary such as harnesses, helmets and belay devices. We recommend that you bring your own gear if you have it.

  • Climbing harness and belay device plus any other climbing gear that you’d like to bring along pertaining to the course material (i.e cams, stoppers, etc, for a Trad course).

  • Helmet

  • Climbing shoes

  • Climbing rope

  • Personal anchor device

  • Closed-toed shoes

  • Weather-appropriate clothing

  • Long pants

  • Water and Lunch

  • Sunscreen

  • Small first aid kit

  • Bug repellent

What should I bring for my Guided Adventure?

When you climb with us, we will provide all the climbing gear you need!  However, that being said, we do ask that you bring along some personal things in order to make your day the most enjoyable.

  • Closed-toed shoes

  • Weather-appropriate clothing (flexible layers for rain, wind, warmth, and sun protection).

  • Pants, tights, or long shorts

  • Min 2L of water per person

  • Lunch and snacks

  • Sunscreen

  • Bug repellent

  • Sunglasses

  • Backpack

  • Camera

Age Limits?

We can accommodate children starting at ages 3 and up as long as they can safely fit into our youth harnesses.  All minors must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Weather and Cancellations:

You should come prepared to climb regardless of the weather. If your guide/instructor decides that climbing safely is not feasible due to weather, we will provide a full refund for your trip, or you can reschedule it for an alternate date within the same climbing season at no additional cost. If a course is shortened due to weather, you will receive a prorated refund. If you are able to complete at least two thirds of the scheduled course duration, no refunds will be given.

Can I bring my own gear?

Yes! You are welcome to bring and use your own climbing gear as long as it is inspected and approved by one of our guides.

Should I tip my guide?

If you feel your guide provided a good experience for you, tipping is certainly appropriate and greatly appreciated. For perspective, you normally tip your waiter, who brings you food. Your climbing guide takes you on the experience of a lifetime!

What if I am afraid of heights?

It is completely natural to have a fear of heights, but you should not let your fear hold you back from adventure! If you're interested in climbing outdoors but worried your fear will prevent you from enjoying yourself we encourage you to get in touch with us. In most cases we can work with you to trust yourself as well as your gear and increase your overall confidence on the rock! 

Can you guarantee my safety?

One of the most common questions asked from guests who are new to rock climbing is, “Can you guarantee my safety?” The short answer is no, we cannot.

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All climbing activities have some level of risk. Some would argue that without any risk, climbing wouldn't be as fun.  It is impossible to totally remove risk from climbing activities.  That's where we come in.  Our job at Granite Guides is to inform you of, manage, and reduce the hazards that you are exposed to so that you can focus mainly on the fun.

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Almost everyone has a different tolerance for risk. Someone new to rock climbing may have a tolerance that is quite below that of someone who has been climbing for years. Please know that it is your responsibility to articulate what level of risk you are willing to take. If at any time you feel that you are unwilling to accept the level of risk in an activity, it is important to speak up and let us know.  Usually, we can come up with an alternate approach or solution that still packs plenty of fun!

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For more details on our approach to safety and risk management please see our Policies and Procedures page.

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What kind of weather can I expect?

The weather in most of our climbing areas, (and Nova Scotia in general) is usually challenging to predict until the day of. With varying micro climates, many of our climbing areas experience drastic shifts from day to day depending on the wind direction, intensity, and amount of cloud cover overhead.  Please keep a close eye on the weather forecasts before your trip and be prepared with layers for sun, rain, and wind protection.  Your Guide/Instructor will be sure to choose an area that best suits your adventure and education.

What kind of amenities are at my climbing / course location?

One of the most beautiful things about our climbing destinations is that we often find ourselves in areas that are less traveled.  While we have beautiful views, ocean breezes, wildlife, and endless adventure, a few things that we do not have is bathrooms, running water, snack stands, or a gift shop.  Please be sure to take care of any of those needs before you meet us at the crag and should the need for a bathroom arise during a course or trip, you'll have the wonderful opportunity to do your business surrounded by countless natural wonders.  We use Leave No Trace practices with all of our interactions with the natural world especially those involving the bathroom. 

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