Bathed in the rugged quiet of Quebec’s Charlevoix region, the Batman route at Lac Long offers a straightforward yet engaging trad climb that invites both beginners and seasoned climbers to test their edge on an 80-foot vertical face marked by a distinctive, sandy corner. As you approach the base, the granite’s raw texture brushes your fingers, dusted lightly with crumbly sand that reminds you nature’s whims are an ever-present factor here. The climb stretches predominantly along this pronounced corner for about 25 meters, where careful footwork and mindful hand placements become essential amid the sandy patches that can reduce friction and demand a steady tempo. Though modest in height, the single pitch delivers a satisfying challenge: the rock’s grain and the route’s subtle contours require focused attention to body positioning and gear placement. A solid anchor awaits to the right once the corner segment concludes, providing a reassuring finish to this climb’s central section.

The surrounding landscape sweeps out towards Quebec City, framed by dense forests that hum with occasional bird calls and the whisper of wind through the pines. The climb’s atmosphere is calm and inviting, offering both a physical workout and moments to pause and absorb the natural rhythm of Portneuf’s wild corners. This route, one of the earliest developed in the Lac Long sector, carries a modest 5.7 rating—accessible yet not without its thoughtful demands. Climbers will appreciate its straightforward protection opportunities, relying on traditional gear placements which challenge one to feel the rock intimately. Sandy stretches require a balanced approach: pushing forward with care yet embracing the tactile unpredictability that makes each ascent unique. With under ten recorded votes and a modest star rating, Batman remains a quiet destination for those who favor authentic routes with a touch of grit over polished sport climbs.

Planning your trip to Batman means preparing for a short but focused climb where every hold counts. Footwear with sticky soles will improve traction on sandy and sometimes fragile footholds, and a rack suited for standard trad gear ensures confident placements along the corner’s length. Early morning or late afternoon sessions bring ideal light without the wall baking in the sun, preserving the rock’s grip and your energy. Expect a gentle approach through forest trails that thread their way toward Lac Long’s craggy edges, where the air carries a mix of pine needles and fresh water from nearby streams. Whether you’re passing through Portneuf or making a dedicated trip from Quebec City, the route provides an accessible yet rewarding taste of the province’s climbing diversity.