Kelowna’s Myra Canyon is Area’s Newest Crag

Gripped Magazine July 3, 2015

Myra Canyon is a new-ish sport climbing area near Kelowna, B.C. and has a number of hard routes.

The area has undergone a lot of development from the focused energy of a few dedicated individuals in Chris Phillips, Adam Tutte and Craig Lingley.

Myra Canyon may become known for it’s high concentration of challenging routes 5.12 up to possibly 5.14 but also has many easier, quality climbs.

Jordan Motruk, a Kelowna-based climber, said: These guys would really like to see people out enjoying the 30 or so routes they’ve set. The canyon walls offer lots of shade and it’s usually quite drafty. The forest and the cool stream help moderate the temps making it an amazing summer projecting area, at least as good as anywhere in the Okanagan.”

The area has garnered praise from seasoned veterans such as “This is the best 5.9 I’ve climbed – three fun stars in the next guidebook.” Another commentator said, “Hands down the best climb in Kelowna,” in regards to Care Bear 5.10b.

Here is a video of the one and only Chris Phillips giving us his manliest of grunts on the first ascent of a route in the Bear Cave called Bear Down 5.12d.

Due to the area being relatively new, some holds might be dusty and some ledges might have small loose rocks. It’s always a good idea to wear a helmet.

To get there

Jordan Motruk has been kind to share his knowledge of the approach: Drive past Gallagher’s Golf Course along Mcculloch Road until you come to a sharp corner on a decline. At the bottom of the hill is a single lane bridge and just across the bridge on the right is parking for the trail. Hike past the old gravel pit along the trail for about ten minutes until you get to a massive black pipeline across the trail. Cross the creek to get to Pipeline Wall with five routes 5.10a to 5.12a. Continue walking for another 10 minutes crossing several bridges until you come to the angel springs, an old man-made dam with a small pool. Cross the creek and on your left will be the Amphitheatre Wall. Another three minutes on are the bear walls, back on the right side again.

There are currently topos and maps in the works and we will update when they’re available.

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