PORT ALBERNI CLIMBING FIELD GUIDE
Up the Redwall: A 425‑metre Basalt Spire in the Mackenzie Range
A one‑day, guided ascent of Redwall — a dramatic 425 m basalt multi‑pitch route on Vancouver Island — for experienced climbers seeking an expert‑led alpine objective.
Up the Redwall: A 425‑metre Basalt Spire in the Mackenzie Range.
Redwall rises like a statement of basalt and angle at the western edge of the Mackenzie Range. This guided, single‑day ascent takes climbers up 425 metres of sustained, technical pitches—cracks, blocky jugs and technical corners—culminating in sweeping summit views that reward a demanding, classic multi‑pitch objective on Vancouver Island.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Basalt Spire with Summit Vistas
Redwall’s basalt tower sits at the west end of the Mackenzie Range; the route rises through exposed terrain to long summit vistas that make the physical effort unmistakably worthwhile.
425 m of Classic Multi‑Pitch Climbing
Part of Vancouver Island’s Top‑50 routes, the climb comprises sustained multi‑pitch sequences featuring cracks, blocky jugs and technical corners—a true alpine‑style objective for capable climbers.
Expert Guidance and Technical Support
This is a guided ascent that includes ropes, technical equipment and rappel setup—allowing climbers to focus on route‑finding and climbing while the guide manages systems and safety.
What the day feels like
What the Climb Feels Like
The day moves from a purposeful approach to the base, into sustained multi‑pitch climbing where each pitch asks for precise technique and endurance. Expect a mix of crack work, positive jugs and technical corners over long pitches, with the guide managing rope systems and rappels on descent—culminating in exposed summit panoramas that underline the objective’s alpine character.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ascent suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a single‑day guided ascent; the outing is planned as a one‑day activity.
The guide provides the guide service itself, climbing ropes, technical equipment and rappel setup.
Participants must bring their personal climbing gear (shoes, harness, helmet), plus food and their own transportation to/from the meeting point.
Personal items such as food and transport are not included; ensure you arrive prepared with required personal gear.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The guided ascent is a one‑day trip.
How much climbing elevation is on Redwall?
The route comprises approximately 425 metres of climbing.
What level of climber is this for?
The route is aimed at experienced or intermediate climbers with previous multi‑pitch experience; a high fitness level is required.
What does the operator include?
Included are a guide, climbing ropes, technical equipment and a rappel setup.
What am I expected to bring?
You must bring personal climbing gear (shoes, harness, helmet), as well as food and transportation to the meeting point.
What is the climbing like on Redwall?
Climbing on Redwall involves cracks, blocky jugs and technical corners across sustained multi‑pitch terrain.