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Black Friday at Red Tail Group

Penticton, Canada
sport climbing
5.6
single pitch
bolt protected
beginner friendly
shade
easy approach
Length: 42 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Black Friday
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Black Friday provides a smooth single-pitch climb at Red Tail Group, perfect for those stepping up to 5.6 sport climbs in British Columbia. Its secure bolts and solid holds make it an easy yet enjoyable ascent framed by peaceful natural surroundings."

Black Friday at Red Tail Group

Black Friday offers a straightforward yet rewarding climb tucked within the lower Red Tail sector of Skaha's well-known climbing destinations. This single-pitch sport route stretches 42 feet and moves steadily on solid holds, making it an inviting challenge for those easing into the 5.6 grade or anyone looking to warm up on dependable rock. The route’s five bolts provide confident protection, allowing climbers to focus on movement and positioning rather than gear placement, a welcome confidence boost for novices and a relaxed ascent for seasoned climbers.

The approach to Black Friday unfolds through gentle terrain within the Red Tail Group, a quiet corner of British Columbia's Okanagan region where nature’s calmness contrasts with the thrill of vertical travel. As you ascend, you’ll notice the rock’s texture gripping your fingertips, and the subtle play of light through the surrounding trees adds a touch of serenity below the anchor ledge. The route finishes just beneath a generous tree canopy, giving climbers a moment to catch their breath in cool shade — a small but satisfying reward on a sunny day.

For adventurers planning a trip here, the area’s latitude at 49.43914 and longitude at -119.56753 situates it within reach of Skaha Lake and its vibrant climbing community, where outdoor enthusiasts gather year-round. The climb itself leans toward accessibility without sacrificing quality, perfect for families, beginners, or anyone wanting a no-fuss ascent with clean, straightforward movements.

Though modest in length and grade, Black Friday’s value shines through in its reliable holds and pleasant setting. The route speaks to the foundational joy of climbing: approachable, well-protected, and connected to the natural rhythms of British Columbia’s rugged landscape. Pack your climbing shoes with sticky rubber, bring a harness and quickdraws suited for sport climbing, and prepare for a route that combines dependable technique practice with the pleasure of being outdoors near one of Canada’s climbing hubs.

Expect a brisk 10-minute walk from the parking area, over mostly flat, lightly forested trail segments. This easy access means you can make repeat attempts or pair this climb with other routes at Red Tail Group for a full day of moderate adventure. The best season stretches from late spring through early fall, when stable weather and dry rock create ideal conditions. Early mornings generally promise cooler temperatures and fewer crowds if you're looking for a quieter outing.

Safety and preparation remain key: though the climb is straightforward, the rock can be slippery when wet, so check conditions carefully, especially after rainfall. Also, approach and descent are simple but keep standard trail awareness, as small roots and uneven ground pepper the path. Once at the top, use fixed anchors to descend safely, and always double-check your setup before lowering off.

In all, Black Friday stands as a welcoming introduction to the sport climbing culture at Skaha. It offers a crisp blend of reliable protection, manageable difficulty, and a peaceful setting that invites climbers to enjoy the straightforward pleasure of rising upward, one hold at a time.

Climber Safety

Despite its ease, be cautious if the rock is wet as it becomes slippery easily. Always verify your anchor setup at the top and watch for small loose debris near the ledge. The approach trail, while short, has some uneven spots—mind your footing.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length42 feet

Local Tips

Arrive early in the day to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer climbers.

Check weather and avoid climbing when the rock is damp to maintain good friction.

Bring quickdraws to clip the fixed bolts efficiently—five are on route.

Use the shaded ledge below the tree anchor for a comfortable clip-in and rest spot.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.6
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.6, Black Friday offers straightforward climbing with dependable holds, making the grade feel accessible rather than stiff. The route lacks a crux, providing consistent terrain that suits climbers consolidating basic skills or seeking a pleasant warm-up before tackling tougher climbs at Red Tail Group.

Gear Requirements

The climb is equipped with five bolts spaced for confident sport protection. Sticky rubber shoes are recommended for trusting the holds fully on this short vertical route.

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Tags

sport climbing
5.6
single pitch
bolt protected
beginner friendly
shade
easy approach