Our Story
Welcome to East Peak Climbing, where our story is one of passion, perseverance, and community. Let us take you on a journey of how we became a pillar in our community and a beacon for climbers in Halifax.
Our CEO, Jackie Turner, discovered her love for climbing during her time at Memorial University. Recognizing the rapid growth of the climbing industry and the need for a full-service climbing gym in Halifax, Jackie was determined to bring this level of climbing to her hometown.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create connection through climbing, fostering an inclusive community that celebrates personal growth, friendship, and shared adventure.
At East Peak Climbing it’s about more than crushing hard grades and getting a good pump on, it’s about connecting with ourselves and the people around us in an environment that is a safe and inclusive space for all who want to join in.
Core Values
create connection
We strive to connect with every person who comes through our doors and provide a personalized experience that helps connect them to the sport and the community.
be inclusive
We respect and value all people, we strive to create diversity and equity in the workplace and in climbing.
support our Community
We believe in the power of the community, collaboration within the community, and giving back to the community.
Foster Sustainable Growth
We believe in ethical and responsible business practices, prioritizing people and planet over profit, ensuring our business succeeds in a way that makes sense and makes us proud.
Our Facility
Welcome to our facility, the ultimate destination for adventure seekers and fitness enthusiasts alike. Nestled within the historic walls of the iconic Oxford Theatre, our 6,700 square foot climbing gym stands as a testament to the vibrant transformation of this old movie theatre. With a breathtaking renovation, we have breathed new life into this beloved landmark, creating a space that embraces the spirit of exploration and community.
As you step into our facility, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring climbing area, a true haven for climbers of all levels. Our full-service climbing area offers a diverse range of climbing experiences, including auto belays, top rope climbing, lead climbing, and bouldering. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner looking to test your skills, we have everything you need to challenge yourself and reach new heights.
To cater to your climbing preferences, we boast five rotating auto belays, ensuring there’s always a fresh challenge awaiting you. Additionally, our bouldering area features 20 carefully crafted problems, designed to push your strength, technique, and problem-solving abilities. For those seeking a different kind of ascent, we offer an impressive selection of 50 climbing routes, each offering its own unique thrill.
But our facility doesn’t stop at climbing. We believe in providing a holistic fitness experience, which is why we’ve created a full fitness area designed to complement your climbing journey. Equipped with state-of-the-art cardio equipment, weights, a rig, and hang boards, our fitness area is a haven for cross-training and building the strength necessary for conquering any challenge. The best part? It’s completely free for our members, ensuring you have all the tools to achieve your fitness goals.
Beyond the thrill of climbing and the burn of a great workout, our facility offers some social and multi use space. For moments of relaxation, socialization, or focused work, our member lounge provides a welcoming and comfortable environment. Take a seat, unwind, and connect with fellow climbers in this cozy space designed for camaraderie. The Mountain Room, our versatile multi-purpose room, where friendships are forged and memories are made. Whether you’re attending lessons, celebrating a birthday party, hosting a meeting, or engaging in any other community event, the Mountain Room provides a comfortable and inviting space for all your needs. Just outside the mountain room you can find our member’s lounge which offers a social space to catch up with friends, meet new people or get some work done between climbs!
Ready to invest in your own climbing gear? Look no further than our Gear Shop, where you’ll find all the climbing essentials you need to gear up for your adventures. All of our staff are climbers and a lot of them are gear junkies, we can help you find the best products to meet your needs!
When it’s time to unwind and relax, step outside to the charming patio to visit our neighbours. Take a seat, soak up the sun, and savour a delicious beer from the Oxford Taproom or indulge in a refreshing coffee from West Ender.
Our facility is more than just a climbing gym; it’s a place where community, adventure, and relaxation seamlessly come together.
Our Team
Jackie
CEO & Founder
She/Her
Truly a Jack(ie) of all trades and does a little bit of everything at East Peak. She has a background in recreation therapy, and recreation programming. She loves big ideas, problem solving, connecting with others and helping them learn in a way that best suits their abilities. When she’s not working she is probably on a climbing trip in another country.
ben
Assistant Director
He/Him
A veteran in the climbing industry, and a true climbing encyclopedia. Ben has done every job there is to do in the climbing industry and now spends his days sharing his knowledge. When he’s not working in the gym you can find him crushing outdoor climbs or chilling with his cat Hermes.
Danjela
Operations Manager
She/Her
She grew up in British Columbia and loves climbing, hiking, swimming, and enjoying the sun! In her spare time you can find her watching hockey and supporting her beloved Vancouver Canucks or reading a good book at a local coffee shop:)
Chris
Programs Coordinator
He/Him
Chris is a recent Dalhousie University graduate with a passion for sport science, biomechanics, and rock climbing. While he loves tackling outdoor bouldering projects, he is excited to shift gears, brush up on his rope climbing, and get to know the East Peak Climbing community.
Parvin
Head Setter & Coach
She/Her
Parvin used to coach the Iranian youth team but we snagged this crusher when she moved to Canada. Parvin’s worst nightmare is a day without physical activity, she’s always on the move.
10/10 guaranteed to do more pullups than you without breaking a sweat.
Michael
Team Lead
He/Him
Michael was born and raised in New Brunswick but fell in love with climbing in Nova Scotia. He started bouldering as shoulder rehab post surgery, however quickly found a new sport to obsess over. When he’s not at East Peak, you will likely find him next door on the Garrison patio.
Mac
Team Lead, Social Coordinator, Coach
She/Her
Climbing for years, she can still do the splits, drinks coffee in quantities that raise questions, and takes cribbage personally. She believes every crag should come with a dog, and a good climbing session is measured in conversations, not sends.
Tommy
Front of House, Setter & Adult Coach
He/Him
Tommy is so cool and strong he does not even need an introduction.
Most commonly found either behind the desk or on the boulder mat. Ask him for beta!
Zac
Front of House & Youth Coach
He/Him
He feels most himself when trad climbing routes that haven’t been established outdoors. He prefers for other people to change his lightbulbs despite knowing how and doesn’t like journalling.
ELLE
Front of House
& Youth Coach
She/Her
She is a 4th year student at Dalhousie University studying Public Health. When she’s not climbing it’s probably because she has injured herself, once again. She’s always around to chat and loves journalling.
Sophie
Front of House & Youth Coach
She/Her
Sophie is a 3rd year student at Kings/Dalhousie University. Along with climbing, she love whitewater canoeing, camping, knitting, and exploring the woods!
Lucy
Front of House & Youth Coach
She/Her
From London, England, she loves knitting, is allergic to gluten, and, most importantly, her favourite animal is a rhino.
Kate
Front of House
She/Her
Kate’s love for climbing and outdoor adventure go hand in hand. She loves coastal hikes with her fluffy friend Nelson, finding new boulders to play on, or having a beer at one of the many awesome breweries of Halifax. One of her favorite things about climbing is the good vibes and upbeat community that comes along with it!
Thea & Felix
Front of House
She/Her & He/Him
Thea and Felix are a dynamic duo that you will see working Front of House, Group Bookings & Summer Camps. When not working, you can find them projecting the hardest climbs in the gym! Thea has represented Nova Scotia at the National stage in both Boulder & Lead Climbing.
finn
Youth Coach
He/Him
Finn was born in China and grew up in Oman, and has finally come home to Nova Scotia. His love for climbing started in the Omani mountains, where he started climbing outdoors with friends and family. Finn is currently studying science at Kings college, and is excited to share his love of climbing with the East Peak community. A friendly face who is always down to chat about your latest project – indoors and out!
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