Canmore Caving Adventure: Rat's Nest Cave Rappel & Squeeze Tour
Spend four hours underground exploring Rat’s Nest Cave with a guided rappel, squeezes, and narrow crawls through limestone galleries. This Adventure Tour pairs a steep mountain approach with technical caving challenges—prepare for an athletic, hands-on experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear ankle-support boots
The approach is rocky and the cave floor uneven—sturdy hiking boots with good tread reduce ankle roll and improve traction.
Hydrate and eat beforehand
You’ll expend steady energy on the hike and underground; eat a solid snack and carry water for the approach and return.
Mind the harness limits
Harnesses have maximum waist (114 cm / 45") and leg (84 cm / 33") sizes—check fit with the operator before booking.
Be ready for confined spaces
The tour includes tight squeezes and crawling—if you have claustrophobia, discuss alternatives with the guide before starting.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Grande Gallery’s sediment bands—subtle paleo-water records visible in low light
- •Short side crawl that leads to a narrow viewpoint over the Grotto offering unusual angles for helmet-cam photos
Wildlife
- •Pikas on the talus slopes above the cave
- •Marmots and occasional mountain goats on nearby ridgelines
Conservation Note
Guides emphasize low-impact travel—stay on authorized routes, avoid touching formations, and refrain from leaving gear or trash to protect fragile cave microenvironments.
Local caving interest dates to mid-20th-century explorations; Rat’s Nest Cave now functions as both a scientific site and a managed visitor attraction with guided access.
What to Bring
Ankle-support hiking bootsEssential
Protects ankles on the rocky approach and provides grip on wet cave floors.
Moisture-wicking long-sleeve base layerEssential
Keeps you warm in the cave’s cool, damp environment and prevents chafing during squeezes.
Durable work gloves or knee pads
Protects hands and knees when crawling over sharp limestone and helps with abrasion.
Small headlamp with fresh batteries
Primary light is provided, but a personal headlamp gives redundancy and hands-free light for the approach.
Common Questions
How long is the tour underground?
You’ll spend approximately four hours underground; total trip time includes a 30–40 minute uphill approach.
Is prior caving or rappelling experience required?
No formal experience is required—the guides manage technical ropework, but you should be comfortable with heights, crawling, and confined spaces.
Are reservations refundable?
The operator’s policy typically offers a full refund if canceled at least 2 days before departure; check booking terms for exact details.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Minimum age and suitability are set by the operator—children must meet physical requirements and be able to follow safety instructions; confirm age limits when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours (total, including approach)
Location
Canmore, Alberta
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Requires moderate to strong cardiovascular fitness, good mobility for crawling and squeezing, and comfort with exposure and rappelling.
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