Got questions about coming in for a visit? Check out the below frequently asked questions! If you don’t see your question answered, check out our Contact page to give us a call or email.
1. DO I HAVE TO TAKE A LESSON?
Short answer is no! Getting started is as easy as walking in. There will be an instructor available to get you started with bouldering or the auto belays. If you are looking to climb the top rope routes in the gym however, you will be required to complete a belay lesson or a quick belay test if you are already certified.
2. DO I HAVE TO BOOK MY LESSON?
Booking will be required for Belay Lessons or the Full Introductory Lesson in order to ensure an instructor will be available for the full duration of the lesson. Please check out our Booking page and make a booking for your lesson if you are interested in learning how to belay!
3. CAN I CLIMB ALONE?
Climbing is typically done in pairs: one climbs and one belays (manages the safety rope) and then they switch. Singles can join others for the lesson.
That said, if you’re climbing by yourself we have a couple of options:
We have 4 Perfect Descent™ auto belays. Each auto belay serves 4 to 5 routes so you will be able to climb a variety of routes without a partner. Great for solo climbers and for endurance workouts.
We also offer bouldering, which is climbing without a safety rope (not too high!) with problems starting from easier levels and increasing up to very difficult.
4. WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing similar to what you would wear at the gym. For example sweat pants, tights or shorts and a T-shirt. Some climbers will prefer to wear pants to avoid scratching or scraping on the legs. If you are renting shoes, please bring thin socks for the climbing shoes.
5. HOW OLD DOES ONE NEED TO BE TO CLIMB?
All ages can climb. We have had climbers as young as 2 years old and as old as 80! However, in order to belay (manage the safety rope) you must be 13 years old or over. Generally, children begin to enjoy and understand climbing around the age of 6.
6. DO I HAVE TO BE VERY STRONG TO CLIMB?
If you can climb a ladder you can climb our easy walls. We have routes of varying difficulty from very easy to next-to-impossible.
7. IS THERE PARKING AT AJAX ROCK OASIS?
There is parking available in the Ajax Community Centre parking lot. There are also outdoor bike racks for locking your bike.
8. CAN I BRING MY CHILDREN TO CLIMB?
Of course! Even if they are not participating, children are welcome to accompany and spectate. A completed waiver is required for everyone looking to participate in any activity throughout the gym no matter how small.
Children under the age of 16 years old will be required to have adult supervision throughout the climbing session. If agreed upon earlier, a staff member can fulfill this role.