At Cochrane Lane’s Minkey Wall, A Warm and Sultry Evening stands out as a go-to 5.9 trad climb that blends approachable moves with a subtly challenging sequence. This single pitch, spanning roughly 100 feet, rolls upward through varied rock features that demand both technique and a feel for balance. You’ll start by navigating a slightly awkward mini ramp or opting for a smoother approach just left of it, leading you to a sturdy crack and a comfortable ledge — a natural foothold that seems to invite a moment’s pause.

From this stance, the climb asks you to veer right, edging about seven feet into a finger crack. Here, the rock’s personality shifts: horizontal breaks tease your grip before rewarding you with a vertical stretch that tests finger strength and precision. As the difficulty ramps up, reaching right secures a blocky ledge that offers a solid hold amid the increasingly technical terrain. The final stretch asks you to step back left into a crack that ascends cleanly to the summit, lined with the reassuring presence of a tree outfitted with tat and a recently installed bolted anchor.

Cochrane Lane Cliffs, located near the quiet town of Welsford, New Brunswick, provide a rugged setting where granite walls rise sharply against the woodland backdrop. The area’s cool breezes stir the pine branches and sometimes carry the faint scent of damp earth, especially in the early morning or after a summer rain. As you climb, you’re connected physically and mentally to the rock’s raw texture, responding to its angles and edges with deliberate moves.

This route is a rewarding outing for climbers comfortable with trad placements and looking to polish their crack climbing skills. The standard rack covers the protection needs well, but expect to stake gear carefully, especially along the finger crack section where placements can feel delicate under stress. The newly bolted anchor simplifies the top-out, making the descent safer and more straightforward.

For practical planning, approach the wall from the Welsford access trail, which cuts through forested terrain with well-worn paths. The climb sees best conditions in late spring through early fall, avoiding the chill and rain that characterize New Brunswick’s winters. Early morning climbs can catch the wall in shade, providing relief on hotter days, while afternoon sessions reward with glowing rock warmed by lingering sun.

A Warm and Sultry Evening is not just a climb; it’s an invitation to engage with a stretch of rock that tests your focus, patience, and skill. Whether you’re refining your crack technique or seeking a consistent 5.9 trad challenge, this route offers a balanced combination of movement, protection, and setting, ensuring a satisfying and memorable ascent.