Search
Unsure of the different sport options available? Compare the options.
Please note our modified hours for Reading Break and Remembrance Day, Nov. 10-12. See all facilities hours.
Take fun to new heights.
Conquer your fear of heights at the CARSA Climbing Centre (CCC). The iconic climbing tower has over 500 holds between the 55-foot tower and 14-foot bouldering wall. The CARSA Climbing Centre focuses on learning and practicing climbing skills in a safe and fun environment.
The CCC offers a variety of programs, classes, and events. There are introductory courses and technique courses. You can register for programs online or in person at CARSA Membership Services. For more information contact CARSA Membership Services at 250-472-4000 or e-mail our coordinator at jlitton@uvic.ca.
To use the climbing facilities simply drop by anytime during operating hours and our staff will get you started. You will be given a short orientation of the facility, safety regulations and rules during your first visit. We run weekly courses to teach new climbers the skills needed to belay safely. Experienced climbers can simply pass a belay test on their first visit, no appointment necessary.
⚠️ All climbers must sign a waiver to use the facility.
View the Climbing schedule and programs.
If you have questions about the climbing, the CCC and our programs read through our FAQ to get started.
Please note: These climbing programs are not included in Vikes Fit, Vikes Yoga or Vikes Group memberships. See available membership options for climbing.
Mon., Wed., Fri.: 12:00–9:00PM
Tue., Thu.: 9:00AM–9:00PM
Sat.: 4:00–8:00PM
Sun.: Closed
Reading Break*: 12:00–9:00PM
Holidays†: Closed
⛄ Dec. 22-23: 1–9PM
Dec. 24-26: Closed
Dec. 27-28: 1–6PM
Dec. 29–Jan. 1: Closed
Jan. 2-4: 1–9PM
These holiday hours override any regular hours listed.
*Reading Break: Nov. 10, 12
†Holidays: Oct. 13, Nov. 11
Questions about climbing programs or the CARSA Climbing Centre?
Email: jlitton@uvic.ca
Or check the climbing FAQ page
Climbing programs take place at the CARSA Climbing Centre on the ground floor of the CARSA building. View map.
Note: All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility.
Download waiver
Note: Coloured blocks are scheduled drop-in times.
3:00PM–4:30PM
4:30PM–6:00PM
8:30AM–9:15AM
9:30AM–11:00AM
11:15AM–12:45PM
1:00PM–2:30PM
8:30AM–9:15AM
9:30AM–11:00AM
11:15AM–12:45PM
1:00PM–2:30PM
This schedule is for the next term/session of programs beginning January 5. Please note this schedule is subject to change.
Note: There are no programs on Oct. 13, Nov. 11 due to holidays.
Find something you like? Get a membership and see you on the wall!
ACCESSIBLE
This program is intended to support those living with barriers to engage with climbing and enjoy their time in the CARSA Climbing Centre with the support of our highly trained team. Our team will set-up several adapted climbing systems, which you are encouraged to try. This program is offered with high staff to participant ratio so that all feel safe and supported in our space and are have ample time to explore the wall and find your success. We are grateful for donors like Jumpstart for helping us keep this program barrier-free!
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 9 – December 16
Time: Monday at 5:00PM–7:00PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME ACCESSIBLE
Youth Adaptive Climbing Club welcomes climbers under the age of 16 who benefit from individualized support while exploring the sport of climbing. Our instructors work alongside participants and their caregivers to adapt challenges, equipment, and teaching approaches based on each climber’s needs and goals.
These 1.25-hour sessions focus on building confidence, body awareness, and problem-solving through guided movement and positive encouragement. No prior climbing experience is necessary; we meet each climber where they are and support them as they grow.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 7-16 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Center
Dates: January 11 – April 26
Time: Sunday at 11:45AM–1:00PM • Sunday at 1:15PM–2:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME ACCESSIBLE
This program is intended to support children and youth (ages 7-16) living with barriers to engage with climbing and enjoy their time in the CARSA Climbing Centre with the support of our highly trained team. The aim of the series is to provide to participants an understanding of the systems used to support them on the wall, while also encouraging climbers to progress, grow and learn new skills in a safe and supportive environment. This program is offered with high staff to participant ratio so that all feel safe and supported in our space and are have ample time to explore the wall and find success. We are grateful for donors like Jumpstart for helping us keep this program barrier-free!
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 7-16 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 14 – December 14
Time: Sunday at 9:30AM–11:00AM • Sunday at 11:15AM–12:45PM • Sunday at 1:00PM–2:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
Early Years Climbing Club is an early introduction to the sport of climbing. Our instructors provide a safe environment for 3–5-year-olds to develop their motor skills through games, exploration, and controlled risk.
These beginner-friendly lessons run for 45 minutes and allow parents to accompany their children through this developmental step in their climbing journey.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 3-5 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Center
Dates: January 10 – April 25
Time: Saturday at 8:00AM–8:45AM • Saturday at 9:00AM–9:45AM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
The Early Years Climbing Club is an early introduction to the sport of climbing. Our instructors provide a safe environment for 3–5-year-old to develop their motors skills through games and exploration. These beginner friendly lessons run for 45 minutes and allow parents to accompany their children through this developmental step in their climbing journey.
Update: Unlike previous years Early Years Climbing Club will run for the full semester, instead of half a semester at a time.
Class level: All welcome
Youth welcome: 3-5 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 13 – December 14
Time: Saturday at 8:30AM–9:15AM • Sunday at 8:30AM–9:15AM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
This is a 1.5-hour introductory course on the fundamentals for top rope climbing. Learn the basics of belaying and climbing movements in a welcoming and safe environment with experienced climbing instructors.
Rentals included, along with climbing gym access for the remainder of the day’s drop-in hours.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 16+ years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: October 21 – December 21
Time: Wednesday at 3:00PM–4:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
The Junior Competitive Team is designed for climbers aged 10–14 who are currently competing or who want structured training to prepare for junior-level competitions. Sessions emphasize technical development, movement efficiency, strength, and strategic route-reading within a positive, growth-focused environment.
Participants may enroll in a once-weekly or twice-weekly schedule. Each session is 90 minutes and blends warmups, targeted technique drills, structured practice climbs, physical training, and individualized coaching feedback.
Requirements: This program is designed for children who have previous climbing experience and the goal to compete in competitions.
Class level: Intermediate
Youth welcome: 10-14 years
Location: CARSA Climbing Center
Dates: January 14 – April 24
Time: Wednesday at 4:30PM–6:00PM • Friday at 4:30PM–6:00PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
Junior Kids Climbing Club introduces young climbers ages 5-8 to the fundamentals of climbing in a playful and supportive environment. Our instructors encourage confidence, body awareness, and problem-solving through guided challenges, movement-based games, and beginner climbing techniques.
These one-hour sessions help children build independence while still allowing space for parent support as they grow in their climbing journey.
Class level: Beginner Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 5-8 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Center
Dates: January 10 – April 26
Time: Saturday at 10:00AM–11:00AM • Sunday at 8:45AM–9:45AM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
The Junior Kids climbing Club is aimed at helping your 5–8-year-old progress their love and enjoyment of climbing through various climbing games and activities that will help them build skill and competence in all areas of the climbing gym. Previous experience is not necessary but is certainly helpful.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 5-8 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 13 – December 13
Time: Saturday at 9:30AM–11:00AM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
Let’s get competitive! Individuals aged 10 - 14 will meet once per week to train and develop their climbing technique as a part of the Junior Youth Competitive Team. On hand coaches will provide drills and feedback structured around deepening each participant's understanding of climbing technique and laying the foundations for an independent and strong climbing journey.
Our expert staff will educate members of the Junior Youth Competitive Team in progressive program planning, training motivation, and injury prevention. Our goal is to provide the tools needed for all climbers exiting the Junior Team to have the knowledge and motivation to train at a competitive level. For the best experience, participants should plan to register for all three semesters.
Requirements: Previous experience in our climbing programs is necessary
Class level: Intermediate
Youth welcome: 10-14 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 10 – December 19
Time: Wednesday at 4:30PM–6:00PM • Friday at 4:30PM–6:00PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
Kids Climbing Club helps climbers ages 8–12 continue building their skills in a fun, encouraging environment. Our instructors guide participants through movement challenges, technique-focused activities, and beginner route-reading to support confidence and coordination on the wall.
These 1.5-hour sessions foster independence, teamwork, and a deeper connection to climbing. No prior experience is required.
Class level: Beginner Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 8-12 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Center
Dates: January 10 – April 26
Time: Saturday at 11:15AM–12:45PM • Sunday at 10:00AM–11:30AM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
The Kids climbing Club offers the perfect steppingstone into the sport of climbing. This program is perfect for new and returning 8–12-year-old. Our knowledgeable staff will provide an interactive program centered on the development of introductory climbing techniques and skills through games and activities. No experience necessary.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 8-12 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 13 – December 13
Time: Saturday at 11:15AM–12:45PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
This 3-hour course covers all the technical knowledge you need to know to safely lead climb indoors and is taught by one of our ACMG certified instructors. Skills covered: Leading on either a gri-gri or belay tube device, clip draw, rope management, and falling. This course is great for those who have never led or as a refresher course for those wanting to be up to date on the industry methods for belaying. Participants must have passed a top-rope belay test at our facility, and it is recommended for climbers to comfortably top-rope at a 5.10a level.
Requirements: Participants must have passed a top-rope belay test at our facility and must be able to comfortably top-rope at a 5.10a level. Must be booked in pairs.
Class level: Intermediate
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 14 – December 22
Time:
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
Book a 1.5-hour private session for up to two people. Our private sessions can be customized to reach your needs. You can choose between a technique or belay lesson. Or can just work on a specific part of your climbing. We will work with you to design the lesson. Rentals included, along with climbing gym access for the remainder of the day’s drop-in hours
Requirements: Must be booked in pairs
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 14 – December 22
Time:
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
Our Competitive Climbing Team is designed for committed climbers looking to push their performance in bouldering, top-rope, and lead disciplines. Led by certified instructors and coaches, the team trains twice weekly with a focus on advanced movement, strength, and competition-ready skills.
Each session blends structured warm-ups and cool-downs, technique lessons, targeted drills, free climbing, physical training, and coach-led feedback. Sessions also develop non-physical skills — goal setting, mental strategies, route analysis, and competitive tactics — so athletes arrive to events confident and prepared.
Team members receive a climbing gym Membership at CARSA and individualized training plans that are customized around their upcoming competitions and seasonal goals. Coaches will also provide support at local competitions when available, helping athletes navigate the event environment and gain real-world experience.
Requirements: Previous climbing experience and have been a part of a climbing program.
Class level: Advanced
Youth welcome: 12-18 years
Location: Climbing Center
Dates: January 13 – April 30
Time: Tuesday at 4:30PM–7:30PM • Thursday at 4:30PM–7:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
Youth Fundamentals Club supports climbers ages 10–14 in building a strong foundation of climbing skills in a positive and community-focused environment. Participants learn essential movement techniques, safe belay practices, and confidence on the wall through guided instruction and structured challenges.
These 1.5-hour sessions emphasize teamwork, communication, and skill development in a non-competitive setting, making it a great fit for youth who want to grow at their own pace.
Class level: Beginner Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 10-14 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Center
Dates: January 10 – April 25
Time: Saturday at 1:00PM–2:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
The Youth Fundamentals Club is a great option for those aged 10 to 14 who are looking to deepen their understanding of climbing. This program will teach the fundamental climbing technique and safe belay practices needed to climb at any gym with confidence. This collaborative program teaches the climbing basics through structured games and activities. This program is perfectly suited to young climbers who want to learn in a non-competitive environment.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 10-14 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 13 – December 13
Time: Saturday at 1:00PM–2:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
All prices valid as of September 1, 2025. All prices include GST.
© 2025 University of Victoria, Division of Student Affairs, Vikes Athletics and Recreation