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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 climbing@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 need to have a waiver signed 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 or Vikes Fit + Group memberships.
Mon.–Fri.: 12:00–9:00PM
Sat.: 4:00–8:00PM
Sun.: Closed
Reading Break: 12:00-9:00PM
Holidays: Closed
*Reading Break: Nov. 12-13
†Holidays: Sep. 2, Sep. 30, Oct. 14, Nov. 11
Questions about climbing programs or the CARSA Climbing Centre?
Email: climbing@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
This schedule is for the next term/session of programs beginning January 6. Please note this schedule is subject to change.
Note: There are no programs on Sep. 2, Sep. 30, Oct. 14, Nov. 11 due to holidays.
The climbing wall will be closed on every Sunday for route setting and other maintenance.
Find something you like? Get a membership and see you on the wall!
CAMP YOUTH WELCOME
This is a seasonal youth climbing camp. See other youth camps available.
Our talented team of staff will help you have a grand time in the gym!
Participants can expect to learn about belaying, climbing technique, play some climbing games and challenge themselves on both our climbing tower and bouldering walls. Ages 7-10.
Camps run on:
Class level: All welcome.
Youth welcome: 7-10 years
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 23 – February 14
Program intervals: Runs 3 time(s) for 1/2 day each
Time: Friday at 8:45AM–12:30PM
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.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 23 – April 28
Program intervals: Runs 12 time(s) for 22 sessions - No sessions on Holidays or during December closure each
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
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 7-week 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.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 7-16 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 15 – December 22
Program intervals: Runs 2 time(s) for 6 weeks (No Class - September 29 & October 13) each
Time: Sunday at 4:00PM–5:30PM
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 7-week 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.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 7-16 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: January 12 – April 6
Program intervals: Runs 2 time(s) for 6 weeks (No Class - February 16, 2025) each
Time: Sunday at 4:00PM–5:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
New to bouldering? This monthly session is designed to jump start new climbers by explaining all the written and unwritten rules that come with the sport. Each month’s session is based upon the skill, experience and desire of the group. We will cover etiquette, getting set up with gear, safety, technique, and anything else that participants may have questions about. Rental equipment included.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 17+ years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 13 – December 13
Program intervals: Runs 4 time(s) for 4 sessions - September 13, October 11, November 15, December 13 each
Time: Friday at 7:00PM–9:00PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
New to bouldering? This monthly session is designed to jump start new climbers by explaining all the written and unwritten rules that come with the sport. Each month’s session is based upon the skill, experience and desire of the group. We will cover etiquette, getting set up with gear, safety, technique, and anything else that participants may have questions about. Rental equipment included.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 17+ years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: January 24 – March 28
Program intervals: Runs 4 time(s) for 3 sessions - January 24, February 28, March 28 each
Time: Friday at 7:00PM–9:00PM
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.
Class level: All welcome
Youth welcome: 3-5 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 14 – December 22
Program intervals: Runs 4 time(s) for 6 weeks (No Classes - September 28 & 29, October 12 & 13, November 9 & 10) each
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
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.
Class level: All welcome
Youth welcome: 3-5 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: January 11 – April 6
Program intervals: Runs 4 time(s) for 6 weeks (No Classes - February 15 & 16, 2025) each
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).
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: Beginner Beginner friendly 😊.
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 18 – April 9
Program intervals: Runs 8 time(s) for 14 Sessions each
Time: Wednesday at 4:30PM–6:00PM
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 14 – December 16
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 12 weeks (No Class - September 28, October 12 and November 9) each
Time: Saturday at 11:15AM–12:15PM
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: January 11 – April 5
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 12 weeks (No Class - February 15, 2025) each
Time: Saturday at 11:15AM–12:15PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
This program is designed for children ages 10-14 who have previous climbing experience. Your child will be taught proper training techniques while developing proper climbing techniques. This program is geared towards those kids wanting to start taking their climbing to the next level!
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 14 – December 22
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 12 weeks (No Classes - September 28 & 29, October & 13, November 9 & 10) each
Time: Saturday at 12:30PM–2:00PM • 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
This program is designed for children ages 10-14 who have previous climbing experience. Your child will be taught proper training techniques while developing proper climbing techniques. This program is geared towards those kids wanting to start taking their climbing to the next level!
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: January 11 – April 6
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 12 weeks (No Classes - February 15 & 16, 2025) each
Time: Saturday at 12:30PM–2:00PM • 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
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 14 – December 22
Program intervals: Runs 2 time(s) for 12 weeks (No Classes - September 28 & 29, October 12 & 13, November 9 & 10) each
Time: Saturday at 9:30AM–11:00AM • Sunday at 9:30AM–11:00AM
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: January 11 – April 6
Program intervals: Runs 2 time(s) for 12 weeks (No Classes - February 15 & 16, 2025) each
Time: Saturday at 9:30AM–11:00AM • Sunday at 9:30AM–11:00AM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
This program is for female identifying folx who are interested in yoga and climbing. Our certified climbing instructors will run a climbing session (with teaching and technique components) followed by a 1-hour yoga session with a registered yoga instructor. Female identifying folx aged 17 years and older are welcome to join, whether they have any experience with climbing or yoga.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 17+ years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided. Please bring your own mat.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre and TRX Studio
Dates: September 19 – December 19
Program intervals: Runs 4 time(s) for 4 Sessions - September 19, October 24, November 21, December 19 each
Time: Thursday at 6:30PM–8:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
This program is for female identifying folx who are interested in yoga and climbing. Our certified climbing instructors will run a climbing session (with teaching and technique components) followed by a 1-hour yoga session with a registered yoga instructor. Female identifying folx aged 17 years and older are welcome to join, whether they have any experience with climbing or yoga.
This program runs once a month on the following days: January 23, February 20, March 20, April 17
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 17+ years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre and TRX Studio
Dates: January 23 – April 17
Program intervals: Runs 4 time(s) for 4 Sessions - January 23, February 20, March 20, April 17 each
Time: Thursday at 6:30PM–8:30PM
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
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for each
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
Program intervals: Runs time(s) for each
Time:
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
Bring your whole family to climb at CARSA and have a mountain of fun! Staff will set up all the safety systems and give you a quick introduction and orientation on how to manage the ropes. Two adults and up to two children.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: under 18 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 20 – April 25
Program intervals: Runs 12 time(s) for 2 hours each
Time: Friday at 5:00PM–7:00PM
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 12- 18 will meet twice per week to train and develop their climbing technique as a part of the Senior Youth Competitive Team. On hand coaches will provide drills and feedback structured toward the development of advanced climbing techniques.
Our expert staff will educate members of the Senior 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 Thunder Team to have the self motivation to train at a competitive level.
Requirements: Previous climbing experience and have been a part of a climbing program.
Class level: Intermediate
Youth welcome: 12-18 years
Equipment:
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 10 – November 28
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 12 weeks each
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
Let’s get competitive! Individuals aged 12- 18 will meet twice per week to train and develop their climbing technique as a part of the Senior Youth Competitive Team. On hand coaches will provide drills and feedback structured toward the development of advanced climbing techniques.
Our expert staff will educate members of the Senior 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 Thunder Team to have the self motivation to train at a competitive level.
Requirements: Previous climbing experience and have been a part of a climbing program.
Class level: Intermediate
Youth welcome: 12-18 years
Equipment:
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: January 14 – April 3
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 12 weeks each
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).
NEW YOUTH WELCOME
Vikes climbing camp will introduce children to the world of rock climbing in a safe and fun environment at our Climbing Centre in CARSA. Qualified instructors will lead and teach activities that include basic climbing techniques, safety and games (both on and off the wall). Both the bouldering wall and climbing tower will be used.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 5-9 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: March 17 – March 21
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 1 week each
Time: Monday at 8:45AM–12:30PM • Tuesday at 8:45AM–12:30PM • Wednesday at 8:45AM–12:30PM • Thursday at 8:45AM–12:30PM • Friday at 8:45AM–12:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
NEW YOUTH WELCOME
Vikes climbing camp will introduce children to the world of rock climbing in a safe and fun environment at our Climbing Centre in CARSA. Qualified instructors will lead and teach activities that include basic climbing techniques, safety and games (both on and off the wall). Both the bouldering wall and climbing tower will be used.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 9-12 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: March 24 – March 28
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 1 week each
Time: Monday at 8:45AM–12:30PM • Tuesday at 8:45AM–12:30PM • Wednesday at 8:45AM–12:30PM • Thursday at 8:45AM–12:30PM • Friday at 8:45AM–12:30PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
YOUTH WELCOME
Our Full Day Climbing Camp will introduce children to the world of rock climbing in a safe and fun environment at the CARSA Climbing Centre. Qualified instructors will lead and teach activities that include basic climbing techniques, safety and games (both on and off the wall). Both the bouldering wall and climbing tower will be used.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 8-12 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: December 30 – January 3
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 4 days - NO SESSION - January 1, 2025 each
Time: Monday at 8:45AM–4:00PM • Tuesday at 8:45AM–4:00PM • Thursday at 8:45AM–4:00PM • Friday at 8:45AM–4:00PM
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 7-week 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. No experience necessary.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 10-14 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: September 15 – December 22
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 12 weeks (No Class - September 29, October 13, November 10) each
Time: Sunday at 11:15AM–12:45PM
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 7-week 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. No experience necessary.
Class level: All welcome Beginner friendly 😊.
Youth welcome: 10-14 years
Equipment: Necessary equipment is provided.
Location: CARSA Climbing Centre
Dates: January 12 – April 6
Program intervals: Runs 1 time(s) for 12 weeks (No Class - February 16, 2025) each
Time: Sunday at 11:15AM–12:45PM
All climbers must sign a waiver in order to use our facility. Download the climbing waiver (PDF).
All prices valid as of September 1, 2024. All prices include GST.
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