Remote drilling specialists for hard-to-access exploration locations Across Canada
Ascent Exploration provides drilling services across Canada’s North, Alaska, the continental United States and beyond
Drilling Company Based in Whitehorse, with
20+ years of Experience
Established in 2020 and based in Whitehorse, Yukon, Ascent Exploration is equipped with a Self-Propelled and Heliportable RC and coring rig.
We specialize in reverse circulation drilling, coring, environmental, and geotechnical drilling. At Ascent, our unwavering commitment lies in fostering safe, reliable, and honest working relationships with all our clients.
Reverse Circulation Drilling
Low-impact, efficient, and highly versatile reverse circulation drilling for exploration programs that require clean samples and rapid production. Available in self-propelled or heli-portable configurations for remote terrain.
Odex Drilling
An extremely efficient overburden drilling method that advances casing and drilling simultaneously through difficult ground at a fraction of the cost of sonic drilling — ideal for sampling in complex or collapsing formations.
Pre Collaring for Coring Rigs
Reliable pre-collar drilling for deep core holes, saving valuable time and reducing casing costs so your diamond drill can focus on high-value core recovery.
RAB Drilling
A fast, lightweight, and cost-effective drilling method for early-stage sampling, geochemical surveys, and reconnaissance exploration programs.
Diamond Drilling
Low-impact core drilling for exploration and geotechnical projects requiring continuous, high-quality geological samples. Available as self-propelled or heli-portable for remote and rugged access.
Environmental Drilling
Installation of groundwater monitoring wells, vapor wells, and environmental sampling points, with the ability to tremie grout and seal to regulatory standards.
Installation of Pilings and Anchor Systems
From geotechnical drilling to structural installations, we handle coring, anchor placement, piling installation, and tremie grouting — a turnkey solution for foundation and support systems.
Confined Space Drilling,Testing and Soil Sampling
Specialized confined-space drilling and sampling for tight, restricted, or underground environments where conventional rigs cannot operate. We deliver clean, intact soil and auger samples safely and efficiently.
Ryan Babala
Hailing from Whitehorse, Yukon, with over 20 years of expertise in mining, exploration, geotechnical, and environmental drilling, Ryan's journey spans reverse circulation coring the mountains of Yemen to the Plains of Montana and across Canada. With his latest venture including a notable drilling program in Alaska.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Ryan passionately embraces the outdoors, enjoying activities like hunting, fishing, camping, and snowboarding. He shares his life with his young family, including daughter Isla and fiancée, Danielle.
Recent Drill Projects
Alaska Reverse Circulation Drill Program 3000m
Placer Sampling and Bedrock Profiling
Low Impact Reverse Circulation Drilling Exploration
Low Impact Core Drilling Exploration
Geotechnical Core Drilling
Environmental Drilling with Installations
Installation of Pilings and Anchors
Confined Space Core and Auger Sampling