Rising steadily on the right-hand buttress of Guides Rock in Banff National Park, Aftonroe offers climbers a solid day of sport climbing layered with the raw essence of alpine granite. This route stretches across eight pitches, combining technical moves with sections of comfortable rests, taking you through grey rock faces that challenge and reward in equal measure. From the moment you step onto the first bolt, about five meters above the ground, you’re drawn into the climb’s rhythm—a steady progression past well-spaced bolts on mostly sound stone.

The ascent begins with a straightforward push up the initial seven bolts on pitch one, climbing just above a small ledge framed by a tree before negotiating a short orange wall that lifts the difficulty briefly. This sets the tone for what’s ahead: accessible climbing peppered with moments that demand focus and technique. The second pitch curls around an orange wall, navigating some loose rock in a corner but rewarding patience with a solid belay stance at its ledge.

As you move to pitch three, the character shifts—the famed "Rhino Horn" section gives way to sustained climbing on steep, bulging granite waves that require clean, precise footwork and confident clipping. The crux here remains manageable but maintains an edge that keeps adrenaline in check. Midway through the climb, the grade eases on pitches four and five, featuring slabs and layback cracks with mostly moderate offerings, but still requiring attention to detail and good protection choices.

The final pitches ascend a mix of slabs and steeper ground, including "The Overlap" and "The Gillette Pitch," where subtle holds and thoughtful movement maintain engagement while steadily gaining altitude. The close of the climb brings you to a ledge known as Aftonroe Ledge, a platform giving sweeping views from Mount Rundle across the valley below. Ancient trees grip the rock here, one twisted around a chockstone that forms a natural monument marking the route's name and legacy.

Anchors along the way sit reliably on ledges, often just above trees or natural features, providing secure stances for belays and rappels. The descent calls for careful rappelling using the established ringbolts, with special attention on the long 30-meter rappel off the "Rocky Mountain Rambler" pitch. Tying knots in rope ends is essential here for safety. Options to downclimb slabs near anchors exist but require caution.

Aftonroe carries a quiet history in its name, honoring a lost local landscape once called "Backswamp," as remembered by Jon Whyte, whose passion for the area lives on in this route. Today the climb invites adventurers to experience the sincere granite face of Banff’s rock, combining approachable challenge with lasting mountain memories.

For climbers targeting this route, solid 15 quickdraws, plus extra slings for potential extended belays, are necessary to protect the route effectively and minimize rope drag. The rock quality is mostly excellent, but some caution is advised in spots where loose rock lingers, particularly on the second pitch. Timing your climb for early morning or late afternoon staves off the harsher sun, while spring through early fall provide the cleanest conditions and safest rock temperatures.

Expect a moderate approach with clear trails through lodgepole pine and spruce forests, typically taking 20–30 minutes from the base parking area. The altitude and exposure mean bringing sufficient water and layered clothing, as weather can shift quickly in the Rockies. Aftonroe delivers climbing that’s technical without being overbearing, the natural flow of granite framed by expansive views—a perfect balance for those seeking a grounded but spirited alpine sport climb experience.