Business Details
34 Years
experience
Experience Ottawa's First Rock Climbing Gym
Established in 1992, Coyote Rock Gym is Ottawa's first and most iconic rock climbing facility, co-owned by industry pioneers Greg Lipin and Jody Miall. Our 17,000-square-foot space combines traditional climbing elements with modern competitive-style walls, featuring 40 top rope routes, five dedicated bouldering zones, and unique overhung roofs. We cater to climbers of all skill levels through comprehensive programming for both youth and adults, including our innovative Guaranteed Partner System that provides volunteer belayers during peak hours.With specialized offerings like our Youth Competitive Team program coached by national champions and state-of-the-art facilities accommodating both recreational and competitive climbers, we maintain our reputation as a premier destination for climbing excellence. Our commitment to safety is demonstrated through mandatory waiver requirements, free introductory lessons, and rigorous belay certification processes that ensure all participants meet industry-standard safety protocols.
Services
Rock Climbing
Bouldering
Youth Programs
Competitive Training
Equipment Rentals
Safety Certification
Group Sessions
Climbing Lessons
Summer Camps
Team Coaching
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer 17,000 square feet of climbing space with diverse wall configurations
- Our Guaranteed Partner System provides volunteer belayers during peak hours
- Youth Competitive Team coached by eight-time Canadian National Team member Yves Gravelle
- Free introductory lessons and belay certification for new climbers
- Specialized programs for children aged 4+ with certified safety supervision
Services
Rock Climbing
Our facility features 40 top rope walls and lead climbing routes ranging from 5.4 to 5.13 difficulty levels. Climbers access 24-foot walls with professional belay equipment and safety systems. The gym maintains strict safety protocols requiring belay certification for participants aged 14+, with harness rentals and rope management equipment available for all climbers.
Bouldering
Five dedicated bouldering areas offer 12-14 foot walls with specialized matting systems for safe climbing without ropes. This discipline focuses on technical movement and problem-solving skills. Climbers under 14 require parental supervision, and all participants can rent climbing shoes and liquid chalk at the front desk.
Youth Programs
Specialized programs for children aged 4+ include introductory lessons, competitive team training, and summer camps. Certified instructors supervise all youth activities with mandatory parental presence for younger participants. The facility maintains age-specific safety requirements including harness checks and supervised climbing sessions for teenagers.
Safety Certification
Free introductory courses teach proper belay techniques using Petzl Gri-Gri devices. Participants learn harness fitting, knot tying, and rope management procedures. Certification requires demonstrating safe belaying practices to staff members, with special provisions for adults supervising children and group bookings requiring advance reservations.
Group Sessions
Custom group packages accommodate 6-12 participants during regular hours or 12+ participants during off-peak times. Packages include equipment rentals and safety instruction, with special pricing for school groups and competitive teams. Reservations require one-week advance notice and pre-signed liability waivers for all participants.
People
Greg Lipin
Co-Owner
Climbing industry pioneer with over 30 years experience developing Ottawa's rock climbing community through innovative facility design and youth programming.
Jody Miall
Co-Owner
Climbing legend instrumental in establishing Ottawa's first rock climbing gym, focusing on creating accessible climbing experiences for recreational and competitive athletes.
Yves Gravelle
Head Coach
Eight-time Canadian National Team member with international competition experience, coaching the Coyote Youth Competitive Team since 2014 to produce national championship athletes.
Mike Anderson
Competitive Coach
Certified climbing instructor with 8 years experience at Coyote, specializing in competitive techniques and having coached athletes to national-level achievements since 2011.
Emilia Callanan
Assistant Coach
2023 Youth Nationals champion and World Championship competitor transitioning competitive experience into coaching roles for both youth and adult climbing programs.
Questions
What safety requirements exist for first-time climbers?
All climbers must complete a waiver, with those aged 14+ requiring belay certification. Minors need parental supervision and signed waivers.
Are climbing shoes required?
We recommend renting climbing shoes for better grip, though personal indoor shoes are permitted. Shoe rentals included in lesson packages.
What age groups do you accommodate?
We accept climbers aged 4+, with specific programs for youth and adults. Children under 14 require constant parental supervision.
Can I climb without a partner?
Bouldering doesn't require partners, but top rope climbing needs a certified belayer. Our Guaranteed Partner System provides volunteer belayers during peak hours.
Do you offer competitive training programs?
Our Youth Competitive Team provides specialized coaching with experienced national-level instructors for regional and international competition preparation.
What are your facility hours?
Regular hours apply except major holidays. Off-peak group bookings available with advance reservations through our scheduling system.
