About 200 documented rock climbing routes exist between Sault Ste. Marie and Montreal River. And yet, Shaun Parent estimates the area's climbing community numbers only around 25.

Parent hopes to change that.

“It's safe, it's solid, the scenery's majestic,” said Parent. “In the fall, there are colourful leaves. It's rock climbing in a wilderness setting.”

Parent, a geologist and climbing expert, has been mapping out routes along Mile 38 Road since locating in Batchawana Bay in 2004. Before that, he was in Montreal River, where he spent years mapping out the area's best spots to climb.

Parent studied in Thunder Bay in the early 80s, and was among the early climbers in the area. He said the sport has grown immensely over the last 20 years.

“Now, a second generation of climbers are there and Thunder Bay has a climbing community of around 500 people,” said Parent.

Parent hopes a series of guide books he has created will get the ball rolling in this area.

Parent, who operates Superior Exploration, Adventure and Climbing Co., has just re-released a guide book he created for Montreal River's Ranwick Rock and Keetes Bluff routes eight years ago.

He also has two more route books in the works for the Mile 38 Road, an area that features 120 rock climbs, all within half an hour's walk from the car.

“We're trying to turn Mile 38 Road into a destination,” said Parent.

Parent has documented each route, with directions on how to get there and photos showing the placement of bolts and handholds. Each climb is rated on a 10-point scale to allow climbers with a variety of skill levels to find routes that match their skills.

Parent has had success in promoting the area's ice climbing opportunities. He guides climbers in the winter, and teaches ice climbing courses.

He said he hopes to see the same happen with rock climbing in the summer.

“You might get 500 ice climbers in the winter because the trails are easily accessible and there are large climbs of 500 to 600 feet,” he said.