Rope Access Rock Scaling

Project Description

In August 2025, Alpine Solutions’ industrial rope access team completed rock scaling and slope stabilization on a 300-metre section of the NorthStar Rails to Trails near St. Mary River.

The crew removed loose rock, protected infrastructure, and inspected existing anchors to reduce rockfall hazards. These improvements help keep this section of the Trans Canada Trail safe and accessible.

CP Rail originally stabilized this corridor when trains served the Sullivan Mine. Over time, weathering and freeze–thaw cycles created new slope risks. The Cities of Cranbrook and Kimberley commissioned a slope assessment that identified key areas for remediation.

Project Requirements

The work required safe access to steep, fractured rock slopes above a public trail. Conventional equipment couldn’t reach these areas.

Alpine Solutions’ industrial rope access technicians delivered precise scaling and hazard removal under controlled conditions. The team used specialized rigging,  coordination, and active risk management to protect workers and trail users.

Scope of Work

Alpine Solutions understood the sensitivity of the work location, having residents living nearby. The work included scaling and removal of 180 cubic meters of rock, tree removal, infrastructure protection and public management.

Challenges

The project posed several logistical and technical challenges:

• Steep, fractured rock slopes loomed directly above a heavily trafficked recreational trail
• 40 °C temperature – South-facing slope
• Limited access with conventional machinery
• Trail infrastructure and residence below the rock scaling area

Solutions

Alpine Solutions deployed industrial rope access technicians to tackle these challenges. The crew used a combination of manual rock scaling and pneumatic airbags to remove unstable material safely. Adding to the safety measures, we used protective fences in pairs with dirt berms to protect infrastructure below the scaling area. Our strong communication and crew coordination ensured the successful delivery, incident-free.

Results

The team completed the project on schedule, on budget, achieving all safety and performance objectives. Rockfall hazards dropped significantly, and the slope’s long-term stability strengthened. Through strategic planning, teamwork, and rope access expertise, Alpine Solutions helped the Cities of Cranbrook and Kimberley preserve this critical section of the NorthStar Rails to Trails for years to come.