Yamnuska - Ragged Edge

Yamnuska, an iconic cliff sitting at the eastern edge of the Canadian Rockies, stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of adventure.

In ‘Yamnuska, The Ragged Edge’ we embark on a cinematic journey that not only celebrates the rich history and folklore surrounding this legendary climbing mecca but also pays homage to the colorful characters who have etched their names into its vertical walls.

Climbing, as a sport, is not merely a physical endeavor but a tapestry of stories that intertwine past and present. It is a torch passed from one generation to the next, igniting inspiration and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Yamnuska, akin to Canada’s Yosemite, has been witness to countless tales of triumph, struggle, and unwavering determination.

Our mission is to bring these narratives to life on the silver screen, to weave together the threads of the past and present into a cohesive tapestry of the human spirit.

At the heart of our film is Urs Kallen, a revered climber, and historian who has dedicated his life to unraveling the secrets of Yamnuska. Urs, a pioneer of the early years, has chronicled the cliff’s many routes and captured its essence through the lens of his camera. Through his eyes and words, we delve into the captivating history of Yamnuska, guided by the stories of its legendary characters.

Simultaneously, we follow the footsteps of Arc’teryx athletes Vikki Weldon and Quentin Roberts as they traverse the decades, ascending legendary routes and connecting with climbers from different eras. They become vessels of history, immersing themselves in the flavors of Yamnuska, engaging with the “old guard” who have shaped its legacy. Each encounter reveals tales of epics, first ascents, the evolution of gear, fatalities, rescues, and the occasional conflicts that forged the cliffs identity.

As the film unfolds, Vikki and Quentin’s experiences shape their own thoughts about this cliff of legend, with the characters of old fuelling their curiosity and ambitions. Drawing from the stories they have heard and the history they have absorbed, they begin to envision their own climb, a testament to the enduring spirit of Yamnuska and the vibrant community it has nurtured.

“Yamnuska, The Ragged Edge” is not merely a documentation of historical events but a preservation of Canadian climbing history etched in stone. It is a celebration of the individuals who dedicated their lives to mastering the challenges of Yamnuska, turning it into a proving ground for Canadian rock climbing and alpinism. Without their perseverance and the skills they honed on Yam’s formidable south face, the landscape of Canadian climbing would be unrecognizably different.

Through stunning visuals, captivating storytelling, and a deep reverence for the past, our film aims to ignite the audience’s passion for adventure and inspire a new generation of climbers. It is an ode to the spirit of exploration, the pursuit of greatness, and the unwavering bond between climbers and the majestic landscapes they call home. “Yamnuska, “The Ragged Edge” invites you to join us on this thrilling expedition as we bring this remarkable Canadian story to life on the big screen.

Director’s Bio
John Price, a fledgling filmmaker and director, ventures into the world of cinema driven by an unwavering passion for capturing the unfiltered beauty of action mountain sports. His career has been rooted in a background of still photography, especially in the realms of ice, rock, and alpine climbing. His signature wide perspective captures the grandeur of the places climbing takes us, and his dedication to giving it everything has brought him an international spotlight and deep respect for his willingness to keep things real and unposed.

Amidst the rugged landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, John’s artistic journey took flight, as he diligently honed his skills both figuratively and literally. This challenging mountain range not only refined his abilities but also forged a deeper connection with these beautiful, yet dangerous mountains. It’s within the untamed allure of Yamnuska’s history that John discovered the spark that fueled his desire for filmmaking.

Motivated by a heartfelt desire to share Yamnuska’s rich history, John Price embarked on this cinematic journey, fueled by a genuine hope of capturing the essence of this iconic proving ground. His background in action sports photography, coupled with his passion for storytelling, caught the eye of those around him.

While it was John’s obsession with Yamnuska that was the catalyst for this film’s beginnings, the journey has been significantly enriched and made possible by joining forces with Sherpa Cinema, an honor he deeply treasures. Without their expertise in filmmaking, the film wouldn’t be what it is today.

With his debut film project, John and the team at Sherpas Cinema aspire not only to preserve Yamnuska’s legacy but also to inspire audiences to consider the history of climbing in their own backyard and to think about the importance of looking back to discover what can be learned.