United Way ClimbUP 2026 is United Way Greater Toronto’s signature charity fundraising event in Toronto, taking place at the CN Tower on November 14 and 15, 2026. Participants take on all 1,776 steps of the CN Tower while raising funds to support communities across Toronto, Peel and York Region.
Formerly known as the CN Tower Climb, ClimbUP brings thousands of participants together for an iconic Toronto fundraising challenge. Every step helps raise money for United Way Greater Toronto’s work to fight local poverty and connect people with essential services and opportunities.
Participants of all fitness levels are invited to take part in this annual fundraising event. United Way describes ClimbUP as more than a physical challenge: funds raised help provide access to vital community supports, including food, housing, employment services, counselling and other programs that help people build stronger futures.
The 2026 event has a fundraising goal of $1.85 million. The previous year’s ClimbUP raised a record-breaking $2 million, helping 1.8 million people across Peel, Toronto and York Region access vital services through United Way’s network of more than 300 agencies.
Whether climbing with friends, family, colleagues or as an individual fundraiser, participants become part of a long-standing Toronto tradition that turns 1,776 steps into meaningful community impact. ClimbUP is an opportunity to challenge yourself while helping create a GTA where everyone has the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Event Schedule & Day-of Timeline
Climbing waves run every 30 minutes from early morning through late afternoon (starting as early as 5:00 a.m., depending on assigned wave times and registration availability).A standard participant journey on climb day follows this timeline:
Advance & Day-of Check-in: Check-in takes place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) North Building (255 Front St W). Participants turn in cash or cheque donations, complete waivers, and collect their timing bibs and access wristbands.
Security & Staging: Climbers proceed through mandatory security screening and gear check before heading into the CN Tower base.
The Climb: Participants climb in staggered heat intervals up the 1,776 steps. Average completion times range from 30 to 45 minutes.
Post-Climb & Exit: Climbers reach the LookOut Level for recovery, panoramic city views, and finisher photo opportunities before descending via the elevators back to the MTCC hall.
Age Requirements & Youth Policy
Minimum Age: Climbers must be at least 13 years of age on event day to participate. Children under the age of 13 are not permitted to climb the stairwell due to venue safety regulations.
Youth Rules (Ages 13–17): Youth participants receive a discounted registration fee ($10) and a reduced minimum fundraising requirement ($60). Youth climbers must have a parent or legal guardian sign their waiver prior to the climb, and minors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult on site.
