The Chehalis River Gorge is a striking climbing spot tucked along a riverbank setting in British Columbia's lush Fraser Valley. Just north of the well-known Roadside Attraction crag, this locale provides a combination of steep, shady cliffs that make for an ideal summer climbing retreat.

Approaching the gorge, the road winds briefly north from Highway 7 onto Morris Valley Road. In just about 5 to 7 minutes, the drive delivers you to a small parking area after you cross a single-lane bridge spanning the river. The proximity to the water is both an inspiration and a boon — during warmer spells, you can cool off in the river after a session on the rock or test your nerve with some of the cliff jumping spots strewn through the gorge.

The climbing here is intimate yet rewarding, with routes topping out near 108 feet in height. The cliffs benefit from a dense canopy overhead, providing generous shade for stamina-saving climbs on those blazing hot days. The rock’s character encourages a focused approach, where neither over-exertion nor rushing will get you through the moves. Instead, persistent effort pays dividends.

Classic climbs like Karma Dogs Bog Chong rated at 5.11a, Little Oral Annie at 5.11d, and Venice Beach at 5.12b draw climbers looking for steep challenges with a solid dose of traction and technique. The area isn’t about overwhelming quantity but quality-focused, where every route tests your skills and rewards with satisfying movement.

Given the cliff’s riverside setting and shading trees, the prime climbing window runs during late spring through early fall. These months deliver pleasant weather while the gorge’s orientation naturally shelters the wall, balancing sun and shade to ensure comfortable conditions. Weather data indicates relatively stable conditions with some precipitation distributed through the year, but sporting a dry spell during the core climbing season that spans April through September.

Gear-wise, climbers can come prepared for sport routes without the need for extensive trad protection. The approach is straightforward — a well-kept path from the parking area brings you right to the base of the cliffs in a matter of minutes. This accessibility makes the gorge an attractive spot for a half-day adventure or an ambitious afternoon trip.

Being in a natural riverside corridor, climbers should exercise caution near the water edges and respect the local ecosystem. Cliff jumping can be exhilarating, yet it demands careful scouting of water depth and hidden underwater obstacles. Always prioritize safety when mixing climbing with aquatic thrills.

Beyond the rock, the gorge’s forested surrounds fill the senses with fresh pine and river currents, grounding your day outdoors. It’s a place that invites climbers to blend movement with moments of relaxing beside the flowing water, creating a balanced escape from urban life.

For those plotting trips to the Fraser Valley region, Chehalis River Gorge stands out as a practical, scenic destination packed with steep sport lines and a cool riverside vibe. Whether you’re chasing the sharp edges of Karma Dogs Bog Chong or testing your mettle on Venice Beach, this is a climbing area that rewards preparation, shade-loving endurance, and the occasional refreshing plunge.