"Bake is a compact but demanding sport climb in the White Walls sector near Skaha that combines textured ledges with a cruxy, pumpy sequence. Ideal for climbers sharpening their power endurance, this 35-foot pitch offers a precise yet physically engaging ascent under wide open skies."
Set against the stark expanse of British Columbia’s White Walls area near Skaha, Bake challenges climbers with a compact but powerful sport climb that demands both technique and stamina. The route stretches 35 feet up a textured face peppered with inviting ledges that offer brief moments to catch your breath and steady your hold. As you ascend, the wall’s distinct contours guide you toward a sharp, cruxy sequence that tests your finger strength and body tension, pushing you through a series of pumpy moves before reaching the chains anchoring the top. The exposed bolts are spaced to encourage bold, precise clipping, ensuring that each clip becomes a deliberate act of focus amid physical exertion.
The climb’s location sees reliable dry conditions for much of the climbing season, its southwest-facing aspect making it a perfect afternoon shade refuge in hotter months. The rock itself is a sound, coarse granite that offers friction but requires careful foot placement to maximize efficiency through the climb’s intensity. While only a single pitch, Bake packs enough technical demand in a short distance to leave climbers feeling accomplished but eager for more.
Approaching the wall is straightforward, with well-marked trails winding through open scrub and small groves of pine typical of the Okanagan’s semi-arid climate. The area’s openness means wind can sweep through, lending a brisk freshness that offsets the physical heat generated on the route. Climbers advisedly bring sturdy climbing shoes with sensitive edging capability and chalk to maintain grip. For safety, a helmet and quickdraws suited for sport climbing are essential—though protection is minimal, the four well-placed bolts and solid chains at the anchor point provide reliable security.
Bake’s moderate length and intense moves make it a favorite for climbers looking to hone their power and precision. While the stars rating reflects a modest popularity, those who venture here find a rewarding challenge that combines raw physical effort with strategic climbing. Expect a focused session on pump management coupled with moments of smooth foot shuffling along the ledges that break up the sustained difficulty. If you time your ascent for late afternoon, natural light softens the texture of the rock lending clarity to holds and edges, while the surrounding landscape—dry and vast—offers a quiet, remote atmosphere that attracts those seeking both solitude and challenge.
Although protection is good with four bolts and top chains, the sequence leading to the anchor can leave body positions pumped and hands fatigued. Stay mindful of clipping positions to avoid swinging falls, and wear a helmet as wind exposure and loose trail sections exist nearby.
Climb in the afternoon to benefit from the southwest-facing shade.
Bring climbing shoes with sensitive edging for optimal foothold grip on the granite.
Chalk up to maintain steady hand friction through the crux sequence.
Approach via the main trail through open pine and scrub; trail is well marked but watch for wind exposure.
Four bolts provide solid protection along this short but pumpy route, with a set of chains securing the top anchor. Quickdraws sized for sport climbing and a helmet are recommended for safety.
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