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Lion's Head Climbing Access Deteriorates

Climbing access to Lion's Head has been dealt another blow with the announcement that parking at the Bruce Trail Parking lot (located at the McCurdy Trailhead) is now restricted to four-hour blocks.
  •  Lion's Head Climbing Access Deteriorates.

    Lion's Head Climbing Access Deteriorates. Photo: Ruby Photography

This announcement follows the recent changes that banned parking on Moore St and the closure of the Moore St approach trail. This change resulted in the city requiring everyone to park at the McCurdy Trailhead lot. The lot has a capacity for 30 vehicles, and any overflow traffic is being directed to park at the Lion's Head Arena. The arena is located at 4 Tackabury St and has a capacity for 80+ vehicles.
  •  Lion's Head Climbing Access Deteriorates

    Lion's Head Climbing Access Deteriorates

There is speculation that the city implemented the four-hour parking limit to create more turnover and alleviate congestion as visitors search for parking. Theoretically, this should result in more parking opportunities for visitors as well as generate more revenue for the city.

Unfortunately, this four-hour time restriction will adversely impact climbers as the current approach time to the cliff is now over 60 minutes. This leaves very little time for actual climbing. Hikers will also be impacted as they will not be able to explore the area more extensively.

A limited number of full-day passes are available, but climbers will need to book them at least one day in advance and arrive at the lot before 10 am.

More details as they become available.
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Gus Alexandropoulos is a freelance writer who has been involved in the outdoor industry for over 35 years. During his career he has been the editor at Canada’s national climbing magazine, as well as the gear editor for a national cycling magazine, triathlon magazine and running magazine. His work has been published in Canada’s national newspaper, The Globe and Mail, and he has been a guest on television and radio broadcasts. His passion for climbing began in Ontario in the mid-80s and he continues to travel extensively in search of crisp conditions and steep rock.