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Sisyphus Summits: The Longest Sport Climb in the Rockies

Canmore, Alberta Canada
long multi-pitch
limestone slab
north-facing
windy exposure
technical face climbing
alpine endurance
Length: 1700 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
21
Location
Sisyphus Summits
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Sisyphus Summits stretches over 21 pitches on solid limestone, offering climbers a prolonged test of technique and stamina on the north face of Ha Ling Peak. This route challenges you with slab and face climbing over varied terrain, framed by sweeping mountain views and brisk alpine winds."

Sisyphus Summits: The Longest Sport Climb in the Rockies

Sisyphus Summits stands tall as the definitive endurance test for sport climbers craving a true Rockies challenge. Stretching over 1,700 feet and comprising 21 pitches, this route demands persistence, technique, and a steady head. Located on the north face of Ha Ling Peak, just outside Canmore, Alberta, the climb unfolds across solid limestone, showcasing a succession of slab and face moves that reward precise footwork and thoughtful positioning.

From the first clip, the rock’s texture grabs your fingertips with a quiet certainty, inviting careful balance over power. The terrain shifts steadily, teasing out endurance as you ascend through a variety of subtle cruxes before reaching the most demanding moves around pitch 4—often regarded as the route’s defining challenge. Here, the rock narrows, the holds become less generous, and the line demands laser focus against a backdrop of panoramic alpine views that stretch east across Bow Valley.

As you press upward, the ascent becomes a conversation with the mountain’s temperament. Wind, common on this exposed north-facing wall, pushes hard, daring climbers to hold their ground. The cold can bite sharply even in summer, cooling sweat but also stiffening muscles. Loose rock can occasionally send small showers down the route, a reminder that the mountain remains unpredictable even on a well-protected pitch.

Completing Sisyphus Summits is not for those in a hurry. Strong parties routinely spend eight hours on the route, pacing themselves amid the steady rhythm of placing quickdraws and clipping bolts along this fully bolted wall. The meticulously maintained stations allow for safe 25-meter rappels, easing the descent but demanding respect and cautious rope management.

Approaching the climb means navigating the well-trodden but moderately steep trail that weaves through forested sections and rocky outcrops around Ha Ling's base. The setting is alive with mountain sounds—from distant raven calls to the rustle of alpine breeze across lichen-covered boulders—creating a vivid outdoor soundtrack.

Preparation here is key. Packing over 20 quickdraws is essential if you plan to link multiple pitches, and solid fitness will pay dividends on this multi-pitch adventure. Early starts help mitigate afternoon winds, and layering gear to handle cold temperatures can keep climbers comfortable during the lengthy effort. Proper footwear that balances grip with stability will serve well on the slabby limestone terrain.

Sisyphus Summits exemplifies the spirit of long, alpine sport routes—grounded in technical climbing while inviting climbers to forge their own journey through a vast, exposed vertical playground. For those who seek the challenge, the rewards extend beyond the summit: the uninterrupted views of the Bow Valley and the satisfaction of mastering one of Canada’s most demanding sport routes make the effort unmistakably worth it.

Climber Safety

The north-facing aspect means temperatures can drop quickly, especially if the wind picks up. Loose rock is present, so helmets are a must, and climbers should be prepared for potential rockfall. On windy days, climbing can become significantly more hazardous.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches21
Length1700 feet

Local Tips

Start early to beat the afternoon winds and colder temperatures on the north face.

Bring warm layers even in summer; the wall stays chilly due to its orientation.

Watch for loose rock—wear a helmet and stay alert to occasional rockfall hazards.

Ensure you have enough quickdraws to avoid backtracking during pitch linking.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10d
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10d grade represents a firm challenge that fits well with the route’s sustained nature. While pitch 4 offers the sharpest crux, the overall grade feels well-rated with no unexpected soft spots; careful technique and stamina are crucial. Compared to other Canmore sport climbs, Sisyphus Summits is notably lengthier and more committing.

Gear Requirements

A full sport rack with 20+ quickdraws is mandatory for linking pitches efficiently. All belay stations are set up for 25-meter rappels, so bring enough rope and be prepared for careful descent management.

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Tags

long multi-pitch
limestone slab
north-facing
windy exposure
technical face climbing
alpine endurance