Big Spoon at Cochrane Lane Cliffs is a focused punch of sport climbing that commands respect from the moment you clip in. The route’s defining challenge greets you early with a low crux that demands precision—a mantle onto a small shelf that tests your balance and confident footwork. As you push upwards, the climb shifts character, offering a clean arête that edges the upper section. Despite its inviting line, caution is necessary near the top; the rock can feel fragile in spots, reminding climbers to trust the bolts but tread softly with body positioning.

Set along the exposed face of Welsford’s Cochrane Lane Cliffs, Big Spoon spreads a compact 45 feet of vertical terrain over a single pitch, making it ideal for climbers looking to sharpen their technical sport skills without the commitment of extended routes. The cliff sits just outside the quiet town of Welsford, New Brunswick, surrounded by dense hardwood forests that frame each ascent and contribute to a surprisingly peaceful paddling down the local river after the climb.

Retaining a modest average star rating, Big Spoon is often chosen by experienced climbers seeking a crisp 5.10c/d that delivers a solid challenge in a natural setting. Since the climb relies entirely on fixed bolt protection, gear prep is simple, but climbers should double-check placements near the crumbly arête before trusting holds fully. The approach from roadside parking is straightforward, taking less than 15 minutes over well-trod paths, though the terrain can be slick with moss in wet weather. Timing your climb for mid-morning to mid-afternoon lets you avoid the cold shadows that can stiffen muscles here, especially outside summer.

This route rewards steady focus and patience—not flashy moves but consistent tension and control. By climbing Big Spoon, you engage directly with Cochrane Lane’s approachable yet unforgiving granite, wrapped in the green quiet of New Brunswick’s backcountry. It’s a route that, when climbed well, leaves a clear impression of tactical grace in compact form.