"A focused trad climb threading thin cracks and blocky scrambling, Because It's There challenges climbers with subtle protection and precise movement. Set in the vast Yukon wilderness, it offers a direct, unembellished taste of northern trad climbing."
Because It's There presents a focused and gritty climbing experience in the rugged expanse of Cranberry Meadows, tucked within the vast Yukon Territory of Canada. This single-pitch trad route offers climbers a raw connection to the rock through thin crack moves that demand precision and calm. The climb begins with delicate finger jamming and hand jams threading a narrow crack that tests both technique and patience. As the route progresses, the crack gives way to blocky scrambling that requires confident footwork and a steady eye to maintain balance on challenging holds.
The sparse protection calls for an agile rack ranging from small nuts and zero cams to sizes up to 2 inches, making gear placements a thoughtful part of the ascent. The rock’s texture responds well to careful placements, though the route’s protection can feel marginal in spots, rewarding climbers who come prepared with a varied rack. Bolted anchors secure the top, consisting of a two-bolt setup that ensures a safe retreat. Once at the top, climbers can either enjoy a walk-off descent or set up a rappel down the shark fin formation, adding a touch of adventure to the either way down.
This climb settles into a quiet mountain environment far from the bustle of urban life, with the surrounding wilderness stretching wide under northern skies. While the ascent is straightforward for those comfortable on 5.9 crack climbs, the sparse protection and blocky scrambling sections introduce a subtle edge that keeps the focus sharp. It’s a route that offers just enough challenge to satisfy trad enthusiasts eager for a short, efficient clip of work, or those looking to stretch their skills in a stark, natural setting.
Approached via a manageable trail through open meadows and sparse scrubs, the route’s accessibility belies its position in this northern wildland. Climbers will find themselves breathing cool, crisp air punctuated by the distant calls of birds and the steady wind sweeping across the canyon’s outcrops. Time your climb mid-summer through early fall to avoid the unpredictability of snow or rain, and use sturdy, sticky-soled shoes to master the blocky scrambles safely.
Because It's There doesn’t boast flashy holds or high-traffic glamour, but it is a reliable challenge for trad climbers eager to engage with genuine crack climbing in a remarkably wild setting. Prepare carefully, respect the gear requirements, and embrace the raw texture of this short and focused route.
Protection can be sparse in spots, so be sure you’re confident with placing small nuts and zero cams securely. Blocky scrambling sections have uneven holds—maintain three points of contact and proceed cautiously to avoid slips. Weather can shift rapidly in the Yukon; check forecasts and be prepared for cooler temperatures even in summer.
Time your ascent between July and early October to avoid snow and wet rock.
Stick to sticky-soled shoes for secure footing on blocky scrambles.
Bring a full rack including small cams and nuts to cover varied placements.
Plan for either a straightforward walk-off or a rappel; know the anchor setup in advance.
Carry a rack with small nuts and zero cams up to 2 inches to protect the thin crack sections adequately. The two-bolt anchor at the top allows either a walk-off descent or a rappel setup from the nearby shark fin formation.
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