Liam SmithEstablished in 1992 by climbing legends Greg Lipin and Jody Miall, Coyote Rock Gym is Ottawa’s first and longest-standing climbing gym.
This place is a haven for both seasoned climbers and newcomers, offering a whopping 17,000 square feet of climbing paradise. With features like top-rope, lead climbing, and thrilling overhung roofs, it’s a playground for anyone itching to scale new heights.
The vibe here is a sweet mix of modern flair and old-school charm, catering to all levels of climbers. So if you’re looking for a bit of adventure or just want to hang out (literally), this gym is the perfect spot to get your adrenaline fix and meet some like-minded folks.
- Things to Know
- Where is Ottawa's Coyote Rock Gym?
- How to Get to Ottawa's Coyote Rock Gym
- What to Do and See in Coyote Rock Gym
- Try your hands with top-rope climbing
- Experience bouldering challenges
- Do some warm-ups at their training area
- Enrol your kids in the youth climbing programs
- Take an introductory climbing course for beginners
- Test your endurance on the lead climbing routes
- Participate in the competitive climbing events at the gym
- Where to Eat and Drink in and near Coyote Rock Gym
- Where to Stay near Coyote Rock Gym
- FAQs about Ottawa’s Coyote Rock Gym
Things to Know
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11 AM to 11 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Contact: +1 613 216 4640
Ticket Prices:
- Adult Climbing Day Pass – $20
- Adult Climbing Day Pass (10 Passes) – $165
- Youth (under 18) Climbing Day Pass – $17
- Youth Punch Pass (10 Passes) – $138
*for full prices, click here
Where is Ottawa’s Coyote Rock Gym?
Ottawa’s Coyote Rock Gym is tucked away in the city’s east end at 1737B St. Laurent Blvd, which is super convenient to get to.
Whether you’re driving or taking transit, it’s really easy to reach, and trust me, you’ll know you’re in the right spot the moment you see those impressive walls.
How to Get to Ottawa’s Coyote Rock Gym
Closest bus stop: If public transit is more your style, you can catch a bus via OC Transpo. The nearest bus stop is right at St. Laurent and Innes, just a short walk from the gym.
If you’re driving, just hop onto the Queensway and take the St. Laurent Blvd exit—it’s at Laurent Blvd, and there’s plenty of parking available.
What to Do and See in Coyote Rock Gym
Try your hands with top-rope climbing
– Media credit: thecoyoterockgym
Top-rope climbing is an absolute must-try at Coyote Rock Gym if you’re looking for an exhilarating yet safe way to test your climbing skills. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a newbie, the gym has various routes that cater to all skill levels.
The cool thing here is their super supportive staff who are always ready to help you out, ensuring you know all the safety measures and techniques with belaying.
If it’s your first time, they’ll run you through an introductory course at no extra charge to get you up to speed with using grigris. Oh, and don’t overlook their top-notch rental gear available right at the front desk.
Experience bouldering challenges
– Media credit: thecoyoterockgym
Bouldering at Coyote Rock Gym is all about tackling shorter yet super challenging climbs without ropes. So the only gear you need is some climbing shoes and liquid chalk, both of which you can rent easily.
The bouldering areas offer different styles and difficulty levels, ideal for honing your technique and movement. Plus, you don’t need a partner to enjoy bouldering, making it a fantastic way for solo climbers to meet and connect.
Just a heads up: if you’re under 14, you’ll need a parent with you unless you’re a member. Also, be aware that some bouldering areas have restrictions for younger climbers, so it’s good to check those out.
Do some warm-ups at their training area
– Media credit: thecoyoterockgym
The training area at Coyote Rock Gym is packed with everything you need to get a full-body workout and warm up before hitting the climbs. Here, you’ve got two campus boards, a system wall, moonboards, multiple hang boards for finger strength, and more.
Plus, if cardio is your thing, there are cardio machines to get your heart rate up. Don’t forget about the free weights, which are adjustable to fit your workout, and the yoga balls for those who like to mix things up.
And let’s not overlook the cable machine and three squat racks for those strength training sessions. It’s basically a playground for anyone looking to get stronger and more agile.
Enrol your kids in the youth climbing programs
– Media credit: thecoyoterockgym
If you have kids, Coyote Rock Gym’s youth climbing programs are a fantastic way to get them involved in climbing. They offer structured courses designed to build skills, confidence, and a love for the sport.
Your kids will have a blast while learning in a safe, supervised environment. Plus, they often announce awesome summer camps, which are a big hit.
Whether your child is a complete beginner or has some climbing experience, these programs are tailored to help them progress.
Take an introductory climbing course for beginners
– Media credit: thecoyoterockgym
If you’re new to climbing, the Intro Plus Course is definitely something you should check out. You’ll learn how to use the belaying system and tie into a climbing harness safely.
The instructors are super helpful and friendly; they’ll walk you through basic climbing techniques, explain all the climbing jargon, different types of holds, and even help you choose your routes.
And, of course, they won’t leave you hanging; there’s plenty of time to focus on any specific skills or questions you have at the end of the lesson. They even throw in some bouldering basics to give you a well-rounded intro to climbing.
Test your endurance on the lead climbing routes
– Media credit: thecoyoterockgym
For those ready to take their climbing to the next level, the lead climbing routes are where you want to be. Lead climbing is all about endurance and technique, and this gym offers courses to get you proficient at it.
They teach you how to clip in as you ascend, which is a whole different ball game compared to top-roping. The instructors ensure you understand all the safety protocols and give you the confidence to push your limits.
The routes are varied and challenging, making it the perfect place to build up that climbing stamina. Just remember to hydrate and maybe bring a snack because it’s a workout!
Participate in the competitive climbing events at the gym
– Media credit: thecoyoterockgym
If you’re someone who thrives in a competitive environment or just enjoys a good challenge, the competitive climbing events are right up your alley. They host various events throughout the year, where you can test your skills against other climbers.
These events are super fun and a great way to see where you stand while meeting and mingling with the local climbing community.
Plus, participating in these events can really help you improve, as you’ll be climbing alongside some really skilled folks.
Where to Eat and Drink in and near Coyote Rock Gym
OpenRice Asian Kitchen
– Media credit: openriceasiankitchen
Address: 1755 St. Laurent Blvd.
Phone: +1 613 739 8833
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 4 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for families, casual dining, group gatherings
OpenRice is a hit for anyone looking to dive into an extensive menu that covers a wide range of Asian dishes. Just the starters alone have options like vegetable spring rolls, spicy Thai chicken wings, and some seriously good Cantonese-style dim sum.
For the main course, they offer a variety of noodles and rice dishes that won’t disappoint. If you’re into seafood, the Cantonese-style seafood and basil seafood Delight are big hits.
Plus, if you’re in for a quick lunch, their Openrice lunch bowls are available from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with an egg roll or spring roll on the side.
Kara Mia
– Media credit: karamiarestaurants
Address: 1910 St. Laurent Blvd Unit 7
Phone: +1 613 248 0500
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 10:30 PM
- Saturday – 2 PM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 2 PM to 9:30 PM
Good to know: Great for intimate dining, families, group gatherings
Kara Mia serves up a mix of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Here, expect to come across favourites like calamari fritti or bruschetta, some classic pastas and pizzas, and mains like chicken parmigiana and lamb shank.
You’ll want to keep an eye out for their seafood risotto and penne alla vodka as well, which are crowd favorites. Moreover, their tiramisu and panna cotta are perfect endings to a mea.
And if you’re looking for something to sip on, they have a pretty solid wine and cocktail list. It’s not all about alcohol, though—their non-alcoholic options, including various Italian sodas and fresh juices, are equally delightful.
Lebanese Palace
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Address: 919 Industrial Ave.
Phone: +1 613 739 2929
Pricing: $
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Good to know: Great for families, small groups
Lebanese Palace is your go-to for authentic Lebanese fare, and trust me, their menu has a lot going for it. If you can’t decide between chicken and beef, their mixed chicken & beef shawarma platter has you covered, allowing you to get the best of both worlds.
Their falafel trio is another popular choice, offering a delicious vegetarian option that won’t disappoint. For those who are all about the meats, the large arch of Side Meat is not to be missed—great for sharing.
Other than these, they also have a variety of sandwiches and salads, all perfect for lighter bites.
O’Brien’s Roadhouse
– Media credit: obriensroadhouse
Address: 730 Industrial Ave.
Phone: +1 613 736 6647
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Good to know: Great for casual dining, sports fans, group celebrations
O’Brien’s Roadhouse menu is stacked with awesome options that’ll have you coming back for more. For starters, their appetisers include sweet potato fries, jumbo onion rings, and cajun chippers.
If you’re into fried goodies, try the fried pickle spears or mozza-cheese sticks. And if you’re a wing person, they have a killer selection of sauces as well.
Now, if you’re all about those must-try items, definitely opt for the house-crafted spinach dip & nachos or the Joplin nachos for something cheesier. By the way, they also offer some standout seafood options like tuna tataki and lemon garlic shrimp.
Cora
– Media credit: corarestaurants
Address: 1530 St. Laurent Blvd.
Phone: +1 613 563 2672
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 6 AM to 3 PM
- Sunday – 7 AM to 3 PM
Good to know: Great for breakfast, families, casual dining
Cora got this killer menu that covers everything from savoury skillets to sweet crepes. Whether you’re into classic breakfast items, healthy options, or something a bit more indulgent, Cora’s got you covered.
Some of their must-try items are their crêpes, eggs Benedict (or “Ben and Dictine” as they call it), and a variety of omelettes and crêpomelettes. For those who love classic breakfasts, they’ve got pancakes, French toast, waffles, and more egg dishes.
If you’re dining with kids, their kids menu is perfect, and teens have their own set of favourites too. Plus, they’ve got an early bird menu if you’re up and about early.
Where to Stay near Coyote Rock Gym
Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa
– Media credit: hamptonbyhilton
Address: 100 Coventry Rd.
Phone: +1 613 741 2300
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check in – 3 PM
- Check out – 11 AM
Hampton Inn got everything you need for a hassle-free stay—free breakfast, Wi-Fi, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Plus, they have meeting rooms and a business centre if you’re in town for work.
Parking is free, which is always a bonus. It’s also walking distance to some decent dining options and a short drive to downtown, where you can explore markets, museums, and all that good stuff.
Don’t forget to check out their shuttle service because it might save you some travel headaches.
Courtyard Ottawa East
Address: 200 Coventry Rd.
Phone: +1 613-741-9862
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 4 PM
- Check-out time – 11 AM
Another solid choice is the Courtyard Ottawa East. It’s located just down the street from the Hampton Inn, so you get a lot of the same conveniences.
We’re talking free Wi-Fi, a pool, a fitness centre, and a restaurant on-site that’s great for grabbing quick meals. From here, you’ll also be really close to the Ottawa Train Station—super handy if you’re coming or going by train.
The nearby St. Laurent Shopping Centre is perfect for a bit of retail therapy or just grabbing a bite. It’s also not far from some of the big attractions downtown.
Residence Inn Ottawa Airport
– Media credit: hotelhopperchipmunk
Address: 1172 Walkley Rd.
Phone: +1 613 523 9600
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 4 PM
- Check-out time – 12 PM
The Residence Inn is another fantastic option, especially if you’re looking for something a bit more spacious. Their suites come with full kitchens, which is awesome if you like to prepare some of your own meals or are planning an extended stay.
They also offer free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and an airport shuttle, which is super convenient. Being close to the airport means you’re just a quick drive away from getting in and out of the city.
Plus, it’s near some nice parks and green spaces if you need a little outdoor time. And don’t forget, the hotel has a fitness centre and an indoor pool, which are perfect for some post-climbing relaxation or if you just want to keep up your workout routine.
The Business Inn & Suites
Address: 180 MacLaren St.
Phone: +1 844-997-1777
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check in – 4 PM
- Check out – 11 AM
The Business Inn & Suites has big suites with kitchenettes, making it perfect for longer stays or if you just want the convenience of preparing some meals. They offer free breakfast and Wi-Fi and have a 24-hour fitness centre to keep you in shape.
What’s really great about The Business Inn & Suites is its prime location. You’re right in the heart of downtown Ottawa, which means you’re close to Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market, and loads of restaurants and shops.
You’re also near public transit, which makes getting around the city a breeze. And don’t miss out on their laundry facilities and business centre, both of which can be really handy.
Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre
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Address: 1274 Carling Ave.
Phone: +1 613 728 1951
Pricing: $-$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in time – 4 PM
- Check-out time – 11 AM
The Best Western Plus offers a cosy and reliable stay with all the essentials. They have free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, an outdoor pool, a fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant and bar.
It’s a bit further from the downtown hustle but super close to some cool spots like the Carlingwood Shopping Centre and the Experimental Farm. Also, you’re right by the Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus, so it’s convenient if you’re in town for medical reasons.
Don’t overlook this spot for its relative ease of access to the highway as well, which makes trips in and out of the city quite simple.
