Tonka, known among local climbers as The Gift, offers an engaging mix of climbing styles carved into the limestone cliffs of Tunnel Mountain within Banff National Park. Until recently overlooked by many focusing on the area's typical slab routes, this multi-pitch sport climb unfurls an eight-pitch adventure that rides the edge between technical finesse and physical challenge. Approaching the route, the mountain’s craggy profile greets you with cool chert accents and natural corners that beckon exploration. Each pitch delivers distinct climbing experiences, shifting through slab, face, and corner sequences that test both patience and skill.

Starting at a low bolt on pitch one, be prepared for an exposed fall zone—this opening move skirts loose rock but settles quickly into secure holds that curve upward through natural features. The easy 5.9 climbing here provides a friendly lead-in before the grade and complexity ramp up. Pitch two introduces a tricky face section mixed with a lean back into a corner, rewarding steady footwork and balanced body positioning for its short, 20-meter length.

Pitch three stands out as an intriguing puzzle, featuring juggy, sporty moves that contrast with its occasionally debated 5.10c/d rating. Some have suggested it’s even softer, as holds appear manufactured to smooth out rough patches, but this only adds to the character of the climb. Dynamic climbers will find ample opportunity to flow, while those less inclined might feel the grade’s challenge more keenly. The next pitch continues the momentum with accessible 5.10a moves, although looseness demands careful foot placements.

Mid-route, pitch five serves up a broken corner with layback moves that are less sustained but technically satisfying. Then the route tests mental focus as pitch six takes on a featureless slab section where balance and friction control become vital; this is the crux for many, demanding slab-savvy skills, route reading, and unwavering commitment. A careful traverse leads to a hanging belay, providing a moment to recalibrate before the route’s final stretch.

Pitch seven contrasts the previous challenges with a straightforward jug haul that belies its intimidating exposure—a giant drop looms below, reminding climbers why focus never wavers on this mountain. The finale, pitch eight, closes the route with varied blocky holds that require thoughtful hand placements and precise movement, offering a memorable send to top out on.

One of Tonka’s advantages is its capacity to be linked with long draws on a 70m rope, allowing climbers to transform the eight pitches into an efficient four-pitch route—ideal for faster ascents or accommodating party dynamics. The rock quality varies but leans toward solid limestone throughout, with pockets of loose stone serving as a reminder to stay alert.

For those preparing their gear, quickdraws are all that’s needed here. Many climbers carry 20 draws to confidently link pitches and reduce rappel setups, adding a margin of safety and streamlining transitions. Approach is straightforward from Banff townsite, with established trails feeding to the base; GPS coordinates place you at 51.1775 latitude and -115.5528 longitude, within the protective bounds of a national park.

This route is well suited to climbers with intermediate to advanced sport experience who are comfortable managing varied terrain, exposure, and transitions from slab to steeper faces. While the grade feels true to 5.10c/d, the manufactured holds on pitch three and the demanding slab on pitch six emphasize that quiet concentration and balance are as critical as grip strength. Climbers can expect a rewarding blend of physical and mental engagement framed by Banff’s majestic mountain backdrop.

Timing your climb for spring through early fall takes advantage of moderate temperatures and generally dry rock. Shade on the face occurs mid to late afternoon, which can offer relief during hot summer days but means a cooler start. For descent, climbers follow the marked trail by tracing the chert band past the final anchor chain, navigating to a bolt belay on an adjacent rock. From here, a well-marked walk-off trail leads back to the parking and trailhead zone.

By combining pitch variety, manageability, and the stunning wilderness setting of Banff National Park, Tonka stands as a compelling option for those seeking to expand beyond traditional slab into a more engaging and tactile limestone sport climb with practical logistics and memorable challenges.