"Blood of Eden provides a steady, approachable climb on The Rectory’s limestone face near Grassi Lakes. With no standout crux, its moderate holds spread a consistent challenge over 60 feet, making it great for climbers honing their sport technique in Bow Valley’s rugged setting."
Blood of Eden offers a genuine welcome to climbers exploring The Rectory’s expansive walls, located in the iconic Bow Valley near Grassi Lakes, Alberta. This one-pitch, 60-foot sport route disperses its challenges evenly across the face, offering no singular crux but a steady sequence of moderate holds. The route suits those aiming to refine technical movement without the sting of a brutal difficulty spike, providing a clean introduction to the area’s limestone features. As you ascend, the rock’s texture rises under your fingertips, inviting careful foot placement on ledges that feel solid, yet demand attentive balance. The wall faces east, meaning morning light bathes the route, warming the stone and inviting early-day ascents before afternoon shadows cool the rock.
Protection relies on six reliable bolts ending in chains, providing straightforward, secure gear placements that let climbers focus on movement rather than protection anxiety. Approach is similarly accessible; a short stroll from the Grassi Lakes parking area brings you to the base of The Rectory, winding through gentle forest terrain that carries the faint murmur of Bow Valley life beyond the trees. Expect about 10 to 15 minutes on easy trail footing to reach this spot.
Blood of Eden is ideal for climbers stepping up from beginner routes who want to test their stamina and technique on sustained moderate climbing without facing a single standout crux. It’s a route that rewards smooth, deliberate pace and careful hold selection rather than explosive power, making it a useful training ground as well as a satisfying climb in its own right.
Plan your ascent with hydration in mind, as the exposed rock can reflect the sun’s heat despite the welcoming morning shade. Wear shoes with reliable edging, since the holds vary in size but demand precision footwork. Early season climbs often provide optimal conditions, as summer days can warm the rock intensely, pushing comfort levels. Upon finishing at the chains, descend by walking off to the left, staying aware of loose gravel on the trail section.
Blood of Eden is worth the visit just for the approachable challenge balanced with the raw beauty of Bow Valley’s rugged landscape. Whether you’re building confidence or topping out after lines nearby, this route stands as a steady, dependable choice on The Rectory’s versatile walls.
While bolting is reliable, the approach trail can have loose gravel sections; watch your footing on descent. Also, the rock can heat up under midday sun, increasing fatigue—plan climbs for cooler times to maintain focus and grip.
Arrive early to climb in the cool morning sun before the wall shifts into shadow.
Wear shoes with precise edging capabilities to make the most of the small, spread out holds.
Stay hydrated; exposure can make sustained effort warm despite morning shade.
Walk off to the left of the anchors carefully to avoid loose gravel on descent trails.
Six bolts protect this 60-foot pitch reliably, finishing at solid chains. The bolting pattern is consistent and well-maintained, allowing climbers to focus on smooth movement rather than complex gear management.
Upload your photos of Blood of Eden and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.