Basecamp Climbing Toronto
Toronto's premier indoor climbing destination, offering diverse bouldering and top-rope routes in a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Basecamp Climbing Toronto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Toronto's premier indoor climbing destination, offering diverse bouldering and top-rope routes in a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.
"Basecamp has really made me feel part of a greater community and I’m really looking forward to getting a membership."
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Bring your own climbing shoes or rent them. Comfortable athletic wear is a must for unrestricted movement. :athletic_shoe:
🤝 Ask for Beta
Don't be afraid to ask fellow climbers for tips on how to complete a route. The community is very helpful! :people_hugging:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bouldering Walls
Upstairs section
Challenge yourself on diverse bouldering routes with varied holds and difficulties. Perfect for solo climbers or those looking for a quick workout.
Top Rope Climbing
Main floor
Climb higher with top-rope routes, ideal for partners or those looking for a more traditional climbing experience.
Auto-Belays
Designated areas
Convenient auto-belays allow for solo climbing sessions, offering flexibility for climbers without a partner.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Session in Advance
Embrace the Community Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Bring your own climbing shoes or rent them. Comfortable athletic wear is a must for unrestricted movement. :athletic_shoe:
🤝 Ask for Beta
Don't be afraid to ask fellow climbers for tips on how to complete a route. The community is very helpful! :people_hugging:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a water bottle! Climbing is a great workout, and staying hydrated is key. :droplet:
📅 Book Online
Secure your spot by booking your climbing session online in advance, especially for weekend visits. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Bring your own climbing shoes or rent them. Comfortable athletic wear is a must for unrestricted movement. :athletic_shoe:
🤝 Ask for Beta
Don't be afraid to ask fellow climbers for tips on how to complete a route. The community is very helpful! :people_hugging:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a water bottle! Climbing is a great workout, and staying hydrated is key. :droplet:
📅 Book Online
Secure your spot by booking your climbing session online in advance, especially for weekend visits. :ticket:
⬆️ Try the Auto-Belays
If you're climbing solo, the auto-belays are a fantastic option for getting a great workout. :muscle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Basecamp Climbing Toronto is highly praised for its welcoming community, excellent route setting, and supportive staff, making it a top choice for both beginners and experienced climbers. While it can get busy during peak hours, the positive atmosphere and consistent challenge keep visitors returning.
"I started climbing years ago and wanted to get back into it and decided to give Basecamp a try since I moved closer to Bloor St West. I signed up for a top rope lesson to shake of the nerves and have a smooth introduction to climbing again. This was by far one of the best experiences I’ve had in a long time!
The instructors were so patient, making sure I knew all the knots and felt comfortable in my harness. They explained the belay system and offered me a few great tips to remember how to set it all up.
We started on a beginner’s wall which had simple holds for my hands and feet as I went up fairly slow to feel safe and build up my confidence. After the lesson we were free to try any other climb and ended up spending a good part of the day there meeting other climbers and asking questions about more difficult routes. The people who climb here regularly were super friendly and made me feel part of a community, which is another huge reason why I joined a climbing gym.
As I’m new to this area of Toronto, I wanted a place where I can get a good workout in and meet people my own age. Basecamp has really made me feel part of a greater community and I’m really looking forward to getting a membership to climb at least a few times a week.
If you’re looking for a place to climb in Toronto, I’d highly recommend taking the top rope lesson if you’re new and then spending time trying other routes. If you even want to weight lift, they have free weights and a variety of chin up bars.
Can’t wait to go back to Basecamp again this week and then eventually try outdoor climbing this summer!"
Scott Ste Marie
"I’ve been climbing at Basecamp since 2017 and it’s still one of my favourite gyms in the city. It has top rope on the main floor and a whole bouldering section upstairs, so there’s always something to do whether I’m climbing with a partner or just want to do my own thing. The space is super versatile and easy to navigate, even during busier times.
When I started I had never climbed before, I signed up for the intro lesson and was instantly hooked. The staff made it super easy and fun to get into, and everyone’s always been really friendly and welcoming. I remember being kind of intimidated at first, but the vibe at Basecamp was so relaxed and encouraging that it didn’t take long to feel comfortable. Over the years, I’ve met so many great people here. It’s got a really solid community vibe, which I find is something that not every gym has. Whether you come in with friends or solo, everyone is so friendly it’s easy to connect with others.
The route setting is great too. I’m on the shorter side and sometimes find climbs at other gyms can feel reachy or awkward, but at Basecamp the setting feels thoughtful and fair. There’s a good variety of styles, and I always find something that challenges me without being discouraging. The grading is consistent, and I actually feel like I can trust it and track my progress, which is super motivating.
There are also four auto-belays, which are handy if I’m climbing solo, or waiting for my partner to show up. It’s a great option that not every gym offers, and I use them all the time.
I’ve had nothing but good experiences here over the years. The space is well-kept, the staff are awesome, and the climbs are always fresh and interesting. Whether you're brand new or have been climbing for a while, they have a huge variety of difficulty.
Also bonus points for the location, it’s in a great neighbourhood with tons of cafes and food spots. My climbing partner and I always go for mango smoothies across the street, it’s basically a post-climb tradition now.
If you’re thinking about trying climbing or looking for a new gym to check out, I’d definitely recommend Basecamp!"
Casey Watson
"We went to Basecamp during March Break and had the best time! Sefton did an awesome job making us newbies feel welcome and safe. Both of my kids were a little apprehensive at first but with Sefton’s unparalleled enthusiasm and encouragement, they both pushed themselves and left with some new-found confidence and big smiles on their faces. Thank you for such a great experience, Sefton!!!"
Anik van Draanen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Basecamp Climbing has two locations: Queen West and Bloor Street. Both are accessible by public transit. The Queen West location is near streetcar lines, and the Bloor Street location is accessible via the subway. Parking can be challenging in these areas, so public transport is often recommended.
Parking availability can vary by location and time of day. It's advisable to check the specific location's details or opt for public transportation, as street parking can be limited and expensive.
Both locations offer beginner-friendly routes and lessons. The reviews suggest that staff at both locations are welcoming to newcomers and provide excellent introductory lessons.
Absolutely! Basecamp welcomes climbers of all backgrounds. International students and visitors have enjoyed climbing there. 
The two locations are a reasonable distance apart. Toronto's public transit system (TTC) is efficient for traveling between them, or you can consider a short taxi or rideshare.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Day passes for adults are typically around 28 CAD + tax, with student, youth, and senior rates available at 25 CAD + tax. Shoe rentals are an additional 7 CAD + tax. Prices can vary, so check their official website for the most current rates.
It's highly recommended to book your climbing session online in advance, especially for peak times like weekends, to guarantee your spot.
Opening hours can vary by day and location. It's best to check the official Basecamp Climbing Toronto website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Discounts are often available for students, youth, and seniors. Some reviews mention group rates or special event pricing, so it's worth inquiring directly or checking their website.
Yes, Basecamp offers memberships for frequent climbers, which can be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple times a week.
🎫 🧗 Onsite Experience
Basecamp is renowned for its friendly and welcoming community vibe. Many visitors feel like they've joined a community, making it a great place to meet people. +1
Yes, Basecamp is very beginner-friendly. They offer top-rope lessons and staff are patient and helpful in teaching knots, belay systems, and basic climbing techniques.
Basecamp offers a variety of climbing routes, including bouldering walls with diverse holds and top-rope climbing. They also have auto-belays for solo climbers. The route setting is described as thoughtful and fair.
Yes, the route setting is considered thoughtful and fair, catering to different body types and heights. Even shorter climbers find challenging yet accessible routes.
Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows for a full range of motion. You can bring your own climbing shoes or rent them at the gym.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Basecamp itself may not have extensive food options, but they are located in vibrant neighborhoods (Queen West and Bloor Street) with numerous cafes and restaurants nearby. Many climbers enjoy grabbing a smoothie or meal after their session.
It's generally best to check Basecamp's specific policy on outside food and drinks. However, bringing a water bottle is usually permitted and encouraged.
The Queen West area is a foodie paradise! You'll find everything from casual cafes to trendy restaurants. Many climbers enjoy exploring the local culinary scene after a session.
Yes, the neighborhoods surrounding Basecamp offer a wide array of healthy eating choices, including smoothie bars, salad places, and vegetarian/vegan restaurants.
Basecamp is a fun venue for group activities and celebrations. While they might not offer catering, you can certainly book a session for a birthday party and then head out to a nearby restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other climbers' privacy and ask for permission before taking photos of individuals. +1
The climbing walls themselves offer dynamic and visually interesting backdrops. Capture action shots of climbers in motion or the unique architecture of the gym.
Similar to photography, personal video recording is usually permitted. Many TikTok and Instagram creators have shared their climbing experiences, showcasing the gym's features.
Drone photography is typically not allowed inside indoor climbing gyms due to safety regulations and potential disruption to other patrons.
Action shots of ascents, close-ups of interesting holds, and wide shots showcasing the gym's scale are popular. Capturing the community vibe can also make for engaging content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider signing up for an introductory lesson as a family to learn the basics together. The bouldering walls and top-rope options cater to various ages and skill levels, ensuring everyone can participate. It's a great way to bond and create lasting memories while promoting physical activity.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
The variety of routes, from V2 to V5 and beyond, allows for progressive overload and continuous improvement. Techniques like heel hooks, flagging, and cross-steps can be practiced to enhance efficiency and power.
🤝 Solo Climbers
Beyond the auto-belays, the gym's inclusive atmosphere means you can easily connect with other climbers. Many solo visitors find themselves making new friends and even finding regular climbing partners. The staff are also approachable and can offer guidance if you need it.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting Started: Your First Climb at Basecamp
After your lesson, you're encouraged to explore the various routes. The beginner-friendly walls feature simple holds, allowing you to build confidence as you ascend. The supportive atmosphere means you can take your time, ask questions, and even get tips from experienced climbers. This community-driven approach is a significant reason why many people fall in love with climbing at Basecamp.
Don't be intimidated by the sport. Basecamp's philosophy is about making climbing accessible and fun for everyone. Whether you're looking for a new fitness routine or a way to meet people, Basecamp provides a fantastic entry point into the world of rock climbing.
The Basecamp Community: More Than Just Climbing
Whether you arrive solo or with friends, you'll find it easy to strike up conversations and even find climbing partners. This social aspect transforms a workout into a shared experience. Many reviewers express that Basecamp has become a place where they not only get a great workout but also build meaningful friendships.
The supportive environment extends to skill-sharing, with experienced climbers often offering advice and encouragement. This collaborative spirit is a hallmark of Basecamp, making it a standout gym for those seeking more than just a physical challenge.
Route Setting and Progression at Basecamp
The gym utilizes a tape-grading system, which allows climbers to try different holds while still having a clear indication of difficulty. This approach helps climbers track their progress and feel motivated. The variety of climbing styles ensures that there's always something new to challenge you, whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber.
Reviewers often mention that the grading is consistent and trustworthy, which is crucial for effective training and skill development. This attention to detail in route setting contributes significantly to the positive climbing experience at Basecamp.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit