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It took moving to Halifax for climbing to really take hold of me. That was twelve years ago—and since then, it’s become a full-blown obsession.
My love for the sport has evolved, but bouldering outside? That’s still the best part. I've travelled extensively to popular and world-class bouldering destinations all around the United States, and yet, when I return home to Halifax and boulder outside, I am embarrassingly psyched.
The rugged nature of our coast and the beautiful white granite are perfection. Climbing boulders with the ocean surging behind you while embracing the salty sea breeze—there’s nothing like it.
Indoor Climbing
If it’s rainy or you don’t have wheels, don’t worry, Halifax has plenty of indoor climbing options.
Seven Bays Bouldering on Gottingen Street in Downtown Halifax is a great option. It’s not a very big gym, but you’ll often find yourself cheering and chatting with fellow climbers due to its size.
If you’re looking to put your head down and just get in some fitness, or you’re with a large group, their Bayers Lake location is a better option. It’s newer, has taller walls, is more spacious, and has a Kilter board and Moonboard.
Between their bouldering, Moonboard, workout area, and café, if you’re not careful, you’ll spend all afternoon or evening here.
A third Seven Bays location is currently under construction in Dartmouth and is planned to open this year. Once complete, it’ll offer 12,000 square feet of climbing and community space.
Over on Quinpool Road, you’ll find plenty of lovely folks who love getting on the sharp end at East Peak Climbing.
East Peak is a fantastic choice if you’re climbing for the first time and don’t mind heights. Set in an old movie theatre with 30–40-foot climbing walls, auto-belay devices, and volunteer belayers on weekends, you’re in for a delightful time.
They might guide you to Main Face or Sorrows or just rope you into belaying them at the gym. You can also pick up the ever-so-helpful Rock Climbing Nova Scotia guidebook here and rent bouldering pads.
If you’ve never tried climbing, the staff will give you an orientation. Rent a pair of climbing shoes, and you’ll find yourself at the top of the wall in no time.
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Dover Island
If there’s such a thing as a quintessential Nova Scotia bouldering experience, it’s Dover. Catch a ride on a small fishing boat with a local to a granite island, climb in the blazing sun with no shelter, take a dip in the swimming hole (if the tide’s right), and watch the boats drift by. It’s hard to beat—especially if you spot a sunfish or some bioluminescence.
Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Chebucto Head
Just 30 minutes from Downtown Halifax and perched right on the coast, this spot offers a little something for everyone. The approach is easy—only about five minutes—and leads to a wonderful sampling of amazing, albeit sharp, Nova Scotian bouldering. Just be careful—if the surf’s up, some areas (like one aptly named Tsunami) will be off-limits. There’s also an old lighthouse for maximum coastal vibes.
To learn more about outdoor climbing practices and other info visit Climb Nova Scotia. If you’re looking to connect with some locals, or need specific intel the Facebook group Rock Climbing in Nova Scotia is a good way to reach out to folks. And for an incredibly extensive online guide Mobeta.
Final Insights
You can climb all year round in Halifax if you pick your days and boulders wisely. The bouldering isn’t super concentrated and it’s outrageously sharp, which honestly doesn’t lend itself super well to a shorter trip. But if you’ve got grit, waterproof shoes, tape, and a solid pain tolerance, you’re going to have a very good time nonetheless.
My friends all over the States are sick of hearing me ramble about how special and amazing the bouldering is here, but get out there and see for yourself. And don’t forget to look around once you get to the top of the boulder—maybe you’ll spot a whale.
Meet the Local
Hana Ogasawara (she/her)
When she’s not off living in her ’93 Ford Aerostar in the U.S. deserts during the winters, Hana works slinging ‘spros in Downtown Halifax.
After helping open Seven Bays Bouldering, which she left ironically because of her passion for climbing, she does everything possible to get outside and boulder.
It’s tricky business trying to stay strong and uninjured, and keep up with the “kids” 15 years younger. But now in her 40s, she shirks as many adult responsibilities as possible and, by pursuing her passion, manages to remain young at heart.
She can be seen hobbling around the North End, where she’s lived for the past 10 years, probably eating pastries or doing weird finger exercises.
