Okanagan Falls’ Skaha Bluffs hosts one of British Columbia’s premier rock climbing events: the Skaha Bluffs Rock Climbing Festival. Each year, this gathering brings together climbers of every skill level, from seasoned pros chasing their next challenge on granite walls to newcomers eager to test their grip and nerve. The cliffs rise sharply above the shimmering waters of Skaha Lake, where vertical faces dare you to engage with the rock’s fierce, unyielding presence.

The festival spans multiple days, set against an environment both raw and inviting. Trails wind through pine-studded slopes ascending approximately 300 meters, providing access to diverse climbing routes ranging from easy single-pitch climbs to expert multi-pitch challenges. You’ll find the ground a mix of gravel underfoot and pocketed granite, a terrain that shifts as shadows lengthen. The air holds a dry warmth most summer weeks, with the lake below responding to the sun’s every flicker—sometimes calm, sometimes teasing wind.

Preparation is key to making the most of the festival. Approach early to secure parking near the trailhead; it’s a popular spot, and space fills quickly. Hydration packs and layered clothing are advisable—mornings can be cool, while midday sun demands protection. Footwear should be durable hiking shoes for the trail sections and, naturally, climbing shoes tailored to your climb’s difficulty. Local vendors often bring gear and demo opportunities, perfect for those wanting to test new equipment before buying.

The community vibe pulses through the festival perimeter: workshops, guided climbs, and talks provide practical skills, while informal groups form on the bluff’s edges to share beta or swap stories. Camping nearby is a popular choice with many opting for Skaha Lake Provincial Park, a ten-minute drive offering lakeside spots that allow you to rest under the night sky, ready for another day of vertical pursuit.

Timing matters—mid-May through early October offers the most stable weather, but be ready for sudden gusts that challenge even the most prepared climbers. The bluffs themselves are fiercely themselves: this rock demands respect with its sharp edges and sometimes brittle holds, rewarding focus and patience. The festival embodies that relationship—an exchange of energy between climber and cliff, where every foothold and grip counts.

Whether you're aiming to tick routes, learn new techniques, or simply soak up the rugged beauty of the Okanagan’s granite walls, the Skaha Bluffs Rock Climbing Festival offers a well-rounded, accessible entry point to one of Canada’s best climbing areas. Pack your gear, plan your route, and prepare for the rocks to test your limits and inspire your spirit.