Winter 2023 Newsletter
Hello and happy winter, Ontario climbers! As 2023 wraps up, let's rewind the epic climbs, the thrilling whippers, and the unbreakable community spirit. Now, gear up for 2024—the OAC has a ton of exciting plans lined up. Adventure awaits!
Climbing Is Back at the Devil's Glen
Consistent access to outdoor climbing has been an ongoing challenge for the OAC and Ontario climbing community. In May 2023, Ontario Parks abruptly installed "No Climbing" signs at Devil’s Glen, which sparked community outrage. In response, the climbing community came together and sent over 3000 letters to the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. This collective action led to the removal of signs banning climbing at Devil’s Glen. Ontario Parks and the OAC are working together to strike a balance between recreation, conservation and economic benefits.
New Annual Membership Program
The OAC is a non-profit organization run by devoted volunteers. Historically, the OAC was able to pay for operating expenses through corporate sponsorships and donations, but the unreliability of this funding makes it challenging to plan for and deliver on the OAC‘s mission. To support our ongoing operations and core initiatives, the OAC is introducing an annual membership, priced at $20 per year. Moving to an annual membership model will help create a steady cash flow to fund the OAC‘s activities, and allow the OAC to invest more in new projects that support Ontario climbing access. The Annual Membership Program will be launched in early 2024 and more information about the program will be released soon via social media and our website.
Order Your 2024 OAC Calendar
Thank you to everyone who submitted their photos to be featured in the 2024 Ontario Crags Calendar. The calendars are now available to be purchased online or at your local gym! All proceeds from calendar sales go toward promoting, advocating for, and maintaining open access to climbing in Ontario.
Call for Volunteers: Beaver Valley Climbing Festival
This summer, we are looking to relaunch the Beaver Valley Climbing Festival, which is an opportunity for the climbing community to come together and celebrate our love of climbing in Beaver Valley, Ontario. Come and enjoy a weekend of rock climbing, clinics, camping, prizes and entertainment. We are currently seeking volunteers for the event!
Crag Update: Eagle's Nest in Bancroft
Nestled in the heart of Bancroft, Ontario, Eagle's Nest boasts bullet-proof granite bluffs reaching heights of up to 60 meters. With a climbing legacy dating back to the 1960s, this crag is a historical gem. Unfortunately, in the spring of 2023, three property owners placed “NO CLIMBING / NO TRESPASSING” signs on the property adjacent to, or sections of, the cliff. The latest closures restrict access to Finger Stinger and other newly bolted routes. The OAC has reached out to the City of Bancroft and is working towards a potential solution.
P.S. Please accept our apologies if we have added you to the newsletter by mistake.