From Gripped Magazine · Brandon Pullan · · 2m
Sonnie Trotter's 30 years of climbing stories come to Toronto
The legendary Canadian climber shares his memoir and climbing journey at MEC tonight.
In brief
The legendary Canadian climber shares his memoir and climbing journey at MEC tonight. Sonnie Trotter's career spans three decades of hard climbing achievements, but his new memoir focuses on the relationships and personal evolution behind the ascents. Originally reported by Gripped Magazine.
Legendary climber returns to Toronto tonight
Sonnie Trotter, one of Canada's best-known climbers, is presenting 30 years of climbing stories at MEC on Queen Street West. The event starts at 7:30 p.m. and includes a Q&A and book signing.
Where it all began for Trotter
Trotter's climbing story started in Toronto in the late 1990s, making the city the birthplace of his journey to becoming one of Canada's most accomplished climbers.
First ascents that defined his career
Trotter made the first free ascents of Cobra Crack in Squamish and The Path in Alberta, both graded 5.14. These celebrated climbs established him as a leader in hard trad climbing.
New memoir goes beyond the ascents
Uplifted: The Evolution of a Climbing Life, published in 2025, explores the relationships, risks and changing perspectives that shaped Trotter's life in climbing, not just the difficult routes.
What's happening at tonight's event
The evening includes a presentation, Q&A, and book signing. Patagonia will run a product clinic with prizes, and attendees can connect with local climbing organizations like the Ontario Alliance of Climbers and Toronto Climbing Club.
Tickets support climbing access in Ontario
Tickets cost $20, with all proceeds from ticket and book sales going to the Ontario Alliance of Climbers to support climbing access and advocacy in Ontario.
Trotter's latest first ascent in Squamish
In 2025, Trotter made the first ascent of Little Wing, a multi-pitch 5.13+ on the Prow Wall of The Chief in Squamish. The route required extensive cleaning and bolting over multiple visits.
Why Trotter bolted Little Wing
Trotter bolted the route to make it safe, enjoyable, and inviting for climbers to repeat. He wanted the climb to get used and loved rather than grow over from neglect like many of his previous gear-only ascents.
“I wanted to make this climb fun, safe, exciting, and inviting for people to come and play on.”
The one thing
Sonnie Trotter's career spans three decades of hard climbing achievements, but his new memoir focuses on the relationships and personal evolution behind the ascents.
