Kyle Heavey, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran with roots in Bonner County, has launched Chillino Rock Climbing, a new guided instruction service offering rock climbing courses and private guiding throughout North Idaho. The business, which began operations this summer, fills a gap in the regional outdoor recreation market as the area’s only active licensed rock climbing outfitting.
Heavey, who maintains a part-time residence in Bonner County and whose family operates North Idaho Steam Cleaning locally, spent last summer exploring climbing areas near Sandpoint, including sites at Selkirk Crest and Q’emiln Park. Those reconnaissance trips informed the decision to launch a formal climbing instruction program rooted in the region.
Classes and Certification Standards
Chillino Rock Climbing offers three tiers of instruction. Introductory courses meet every Saturday at Q’emiln Park and cover foundational skills including knot-tying, top roping, and safe belaying techniques. An advanced monthly course targets climbers with indoor experience and teaches anchor building, lead climbing, and rappelling.
Private guiding services are also available for climbers seeking personalized instruction or those looking to explore specific routes. All instructors working for Chillino are certified by the American Mountain Guides Association and hold Wilderness First Responder credentials, ensuring participants receive instruction from professionals trained in both climbing safety and emergency response.
Heavey emphasized the philosophy driving the operation. “Safety is our top priority, while having fun and being challenged,” he stated, adding that comprehensive skill development extends beyond the climbing wall itself. “Rock climbing starts and ends at the trailhead, meaning all these skills are important,” he noted, highlighting the importance of navigation and preparation skills that bracket the climbing experience.
Licensing and Expansion Plans
The business currently holds licensing to guide and instruct at Q’emiln Park and is working to secure permits for additional climbing areas in the region. Chillino operates on a seasonal schedule, running July through September to align with optimal climbing weather and local recreation patterns.
The company’s presence addresses a void in North Idaho’s outdoor recreation offerings. Rock climbing instruction has grown in popularity nationwide as part of the broader outdoor recreation economy, yet the Panhandle region has lacked a dedicated, licensed climbing outfitter until now.
Getting Started
Prospective climbers can register for classes or inquire about private guiding through Chillino’s website at chillinorockclimbing.com/north-Idaho or by calling 805-813-5770. The business maintains an active social media presence on Instagram at @chillinorockclimbingidaho and @kyleheaveyoutdoors.
The launch reflects broader momentum in Bonner County’s recreational offerings. Sandpoint’s White Pines Lacrosse recently launched a semi-professional team in a regional box league, while the community continues to draw visitors and residents seeking outdoor recreation experiences. The Sandpoint Festival, which opened this week with performances from Andy Grammer and Walk off the Earth, further underscores the area’s appeal as a destination for recreation and entertainment.
For climbers in North Idaho looking to develop skills or explore local rock formations under professional guidance, Chillino Rock Climbing represents a new option during the peak outdoor season running through summer’s end.