Kangaroo Point Cliffs Rock Climbing: 20m Urban Crag with City and River Views
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness—able to stand, climb short routes and follow instruction for up to two hours.
Overview
Scale 20 metres of real Brisbane tuff at Kangaroo Point, where Riverlife’s guided sessions pair safety instruction with sweeping city-and-river views. Perfect for beginners and adventurous travelers who want outdoor climbing minutes from downtown Brisbane.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs Rock Climbing: 20m Urban Crag with City and River Views
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The river whispers against the stone as the first climber clips in, sunlight catching the steel of carabiners and the glass towers on the opposite bank. At Kangaroo Point, the sandstone-and-tuff face runs like an open book alongside the Brisbane River—20 metres of weathered holds, seams and ledges that offer a compact but immediate taste of outdoor climbing minutes from the city center.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Book in advance
Sessions are popular—reserve early, especially on weekends and for sunset climbs.
Arrive by public transport
There’s no on-site parking at Riverlife; take the ferry, bus, or a short rideshare from the CBD.
Sun and hydration
Bring a refillable water bottle and sunscreen; climbs expose you to direct sun on summer afternoons.
Footwear and hair
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and tie long hair back; instructors provide climbing-specific gear.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black flying foxes (on evening commutes)
- River birds such as darters and ibis
History
The cliffs were quarried in the 19th century from Brisbane tuff—the stone supplied many of the city’s early public buildings, leaving the sheer faces climbers use today.
Conservation
Stick to established routes, use the provided gear and avoid excessive chalking; Riverlife manages wear by rotating routes and limiting group sizes.
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Adventure Hotspots in Brisbane
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe athletic shoes
Good grip and foot support for approaching the cliff and standing on small ledges before swapping into rental shoes.
Lightweight sun shirt and hat
Protects from Brisbane’s strong sun during midday sessions.
summer specific
Refillable water bottle
Hydration is crucial—tap water is available nearby but bring a bottle to stay topped up.
Light wind layer
Evenings can cool quickly along the river; a thin layer keeps you comfortable during belay duty.
winter specific