Breathe Easy offers a compelling introduction to trad climbing on the Redwood Coast, where dense forest edges the base of a rugged spine of rock daring you to ascend. This single-pitch route stretches 100 feet along solid stone that demands a keen eye for protection and an openness to creative gear placements. The line travels mainly up the left flank of the prominent prow, requiring you to navigate unusual seams and subtle features rather than obvious cracks. As you reach the bulge near the top, hidden jugs await to help you power through with controlled, confident moves.

The route’s 5.9 PG13 rating reflects a challenge that straddles technical finesse and mental grit. Protection looks sparse in sections, encouraging thoughtful use of nuts and cams between 0.1 and 3 inches. The lone bolt adds a modest anchor point, but for the most part, Breathe Easy expects you to rely on your rack and instincts. The rock itself is dependable, free of loose flakes, allowing you to focus on flow and gear rather than constant vigilance.

The Hayfork Haven, positioned within a quieter patch of California’s Redwood Coast, provides an exhilarating gateway to trad climbing enriched by towering evergreens and coastal humidity sharpening your senses. Approaching the route involves negotiating a forested trail where the muffled sounds of wind through pine needles mingle with the distant surf. Despite the serenity, the climb demands attentiveness: route finding requires patience and an appreciation for subtle rock features.

This climb fits well into a day trip agenda from nearby towns, offering a focused outing where adventure meets practicality. Gear up with a well-rounded rack emphasizing small to medium cams and a set of nuts, and plan your approach during dry seasons to ensure solid holds and manageable footing on the access trail. The northwest-facing approach gives morning sun but welcomes shade by afternoon, making early starts advisable.

For climbers eager to hone their crack-to-face trad skills, Breathe Easy presents an invigorating experience without overwhelming commitment. The crux sits just beneath the top bulge, where body positioning and strength converge on a few well-placed jugs. On the descent, a careful rappel or downclimb returns you through the trees to a trailhead that feels both remote and inviting. Whether you’re carving out your trad climbing foundation or adding a scenic challenge to your Redwood Coast list, Breathe Easy demands respect and rewards with a pure climb punctuated by forest, rock, and that satisfying moment pulling over the final bulge.