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There are two things that make Brisbane City truly unique: the lagoons and the natural cliffs right in front of the CBD. Enjoying the lagoons is easy – just head to South Bank, put your swimsuit on, grab a towel, and dive in! But rock climbing Kangaroo Point Cliffs takes a bit more preparation. Whether you’re a first-time climber or an experienced adventurer, here are my top tips to help you plan your climb – from what level you need to what gear to bring.
If you prefer the view to the climb…
You don’t have to be a climber to enjoy the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. You can walk up the stairs to the top for one of the best skyline views in Brisbane. There are barbecue areas too – perfect for a relaxed evening as the sun sets over the city.
Scared of heights? Don’t give up just yet! I am scared of heights, but it does not stop me from rock climbing anymore. It took time and some effort (read more about it here), but I managed to fight my fear of heights. Give it a go with people you trust or with professionals: rock climbing can really help!
What level is required for rock climbing Kangaroo Point Cliffs?
If you’ve never climbed before, the easiest way to experience rock climbing at Kangaroo Point is to join a guided tour. They provide all the equipment and teach you the basics safely.
If you’d like to build some confidence first, try an indoor climbing gym before heading outdoors. Urban Climb in West End is Brisbane’s largest and most popular option.
The University of Queensland Mountain Club (UQMC) also meets at the cliffs on Tuesday and Thursday nights during the semester. Membership is open to everyone (not just students) and includes a two-week free trial.
What equipment is needed for rock climbing Kangaroo Point Cliffs?
If you don’t own climbing gear, joining a tour is again the easiest and safest option, especially if you’re visiting Brisbane and don’t live here.
Alternatively, members of the UQ club can hire climbing gear through them.
If you’re bringing your own, here’s what you’ll need for sport climbing (where bolts are already installed):
- Helmet
- Ropes (two if you’re not lead climbing)
- Harness and karabiners
- Climbing shoes
- Chalk (it gets hot!)
- Sunscreen or sun-protective clothing
- Headlamp if you plan to climb at night
If you’re doing traditional climbing (no bolts), you’ll need extra protection equipment.
Those setting up their own ropes can walk to the top of the cliffs, secure the line, and throw it down – just check the area is clear first and yell “ROPE!” loudly. Of course, if you know how to lead, you can start from the bottom.
How to choose your climbing section
If you’re on a tour, your guide will select the best spot for the group – no planning needed.
If you’re climbing independently, the Crag website lists all the Kangaroo Point climbing routes, from beginner-friendly grades (around level 12) to advanced routes (up to level 25). Click the number of routes to reveal details, and use the grades to find something suitable for your ability.
Tip: it’s worth printing the guide – the route markers on the cliffs can be tricky to spot on a phone. There are letters or marks on the wall or next to it to help.
Local tips for climbing at Kangaroo Point
- Bring plenty of water – it can get hot on the rock face, especially in summer.
- Time your climb for sunset – it’s one of Brisbane’s most iconic views at sunset. Take a break, enjoy the skyline, and maybe have a barbecue at the top.
- Climb at night – the cliffs are lit up after dark, so you can keep climbing even when the sun goes down.
Have you tried rock climbing at Kangaroo Point before? Share your experience in the comments below!
Where are the Kangaroo Point Cliffs?
The Kangaroo Point Cliffs are on the south side of the Brisbane River, directly opposite the City Botanic Gardens. They sit between South Bank and the Story Bridge, only a short walk or ferry ride from the CBD.
If you’re visiting Brisbane and want to stay nearby, Kangaroo Point is a great base – close to the city but quieter, with plenty of riverfront views. You can check my guide on where to stay in Brisbane for more ideas.
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This vaguely brings back memories as I think I saw people climbing when I was last in Brisbane. How cool to do such an adventurous outdoor activity in the city centre.
Yes, it’s when I saw people doing it that I realised it was possible to climb them! It’s rare to link outdoor adventure with city so it’s definitely ver cool 🙂
I’m also scared of heights and I was ready to screen NO WAY JOSE, but after ready your article, this actually sounds super lovely!
Ahah! I convinced a friend she should try. She did very well although she didn’t make it to the top (but I’m sure she will next time) and had fun 😀
Sign me up for an abseiling tour! That is awesome and I bet at sunset it must be truly a beautiful sight! I am definitely adding abseiling Kangaroo Point to my Brisbane Bucket List when we get down to Australia!
Abseiling isn’t a bad choice as it requires fewer efforts than climbing! 😀
Don’t forget to be ready for the barbecue at the top, that’s a good Aussie experience too 😉
How is the view from the cliffs? I haven’t made it to Brisbane yet, but love Australia!
Hi, Tamara. The last photo in the article (in “Last tip”) shows the view from the cliffs. But when you’re climbing, the city is behind you so you cannot enjoy the view that much. That’s why it’s a good idea to organise a barbecue up there after the activity 😉
Great tips! I’d need to seriously up my fitness levels to try the climb, but I’d be very happy to walk up. And it’s cool that Brisbane are so well organised and encourage the climb
Thank you! You don’t have to commit to going all the way to the top if you want to try the climb 😉 But, yes, the stairs are a good option too! It’s indeed really great that the city encourages activities like these.
Kangaroo Cliffs in Brisbane definitely looks like quite the experience. You provide an excellent source of information for climbing these. I probably would stick to a tour because I’d really have no idea what I’m doing. But still, seems like something I’d really rather enjoy. You provide so much information and in such a concise fashion…which I appreciate. Even providing an awesome suggestion for a place to stay is the cherry on top! Thanks so much!
Hi, Jose. It’s safer to use a tour if you have no idea what you’re doing! Rock climbing is a fun activity, but it’s a bit technical too. I hope you’ll try it one day!
Looks like a cool adventure even for those who have not climbed before. When we went to Brisbane we did not even know such services existed to climb Kangaroo mountains. Good to note that one could use the stairs too for those less adventurous.
Hi, Nisha. If you took a trip from Kangaroo Point to the CBD, you might actually have seen the cliffs. It may be impressive for those who have never climbed before, but for sure it’s a great experience! 🙂
This sounds like such a fun adventure! I am sometimes nervous about heights, but an activity like this comes across like there is nothing to fear 🙂
Hi, Alli. I agree. When I feel there is nothing to fear, it’s a lot easier to control the heights phobia for me. I still struggle when I know there is a risk!
So cool that you can go rock-climbing so close to the city! And it’s good that you were able to get past your fear of heights so you could enjoy this adventure…
Hi, Tami. Yes, I’m glad almost every day that I managed to overcome that phobia. It opened many paths for more adventures 🙂
I am definitely not a climber so I’m always impressed to read about people’s climbing adventures. I especially admire that you’re able to get over your fear of heights to do it. I think I would freak out!
Hello, Lois. It took me a while to get over my fear of heights. I took one giant leap of faith (literally: bungee jumping 😉 to prove myself I could do it. Then, I went step by step in more “normal” situation (thank God we don’t bungee jump every day!!!) until I felt ready for more adventurous steps. And it worked 🙂 I still get nervous, but I now manage to control it before freaking out. Rock climbing really helped, if you ever want to try. I freaked out when I started, but that’s ok! 😉