"Chérubin stands out as one of Lac Boisseau’s finest sport lines, delivering a crisp 5.12a challenge on solid granite. This single pitch route blends precise climbing with approachable protection for an engaging Laurentians experience."
Chérubin greets climbers with a straightforward yet memorable challenge set against the quiet expanse of Lac Boisseau, deep in Quebec’s Laurentians. Starting on a broad platform just right of a prominent offwidth crack, this route offers an immediate connection to the rock, inviting you to move deliberately as your hands and feet find purchase on the textured granite. As you cross over the distinctive QW feature, the climb demands a well-measured balance of strength and technique before rewarding you with a pull onto a series of large jugs—perfect holds to finish out the pitch.
Though sporting a single pitch, Chérubin carries an intensity packed into those bolts—each one an invitation to push your limits on the rock face. Rated 5.12a, the route challenges your ability to read sequences quickly and clip efficiently. The six bolts protecting the climb are solid, allowing confident movement without the distraction of gear hunting, so you can focus on flow and finesse.
What sets Chérubin apart is its rock quality and exposure to the Laurentians’ silent forested backdrop, blending technical sport climbing with a connection to nature’s quieter moments. This modest length climb, likely the finest line on Lac Boisseau’s Main Wall, is an excellent testpiece for climbers stepping up from intermediate grades or those wanting to sharpen their sport climbing skills in a setting where the landscape feels vast but the climb feels intimate.
Planning your day here involves more than just the route itself. The approach is gentle, weaving through shaded forest trails punctuated by the scent of pine and the occasional bird call. Lac Boisseau glistens below, daring you to linger after your ascent to soak in the calm waters and crisp air. When gearing up, lightweight sport gear will suffice, but be sure to bring ample water and sun protection; the wall catches the early sun and often basks in warm light well into the afternoon.
Whether you’re pushing into the 5.12 realm for the first time or finding flow in familiar territory, Chérubin offers a clear line with steady rewards. Its steadiness in protection and approachable length balance the physical challenge and the chance to fully experience one of Quebec’s noteworthy sport climbs.
Although the bolts are reliable, the platform start and QW crossover require careful foot placement; the granite can be smooth in spots, so avoid overcommitting on tired holds. Be cautious during wet conditions as the rock becomes slippery, and approach with appropriate footwear.
Approach via the established forest trail for about 20 minutes; the path is easy to follow but slippery when wet.
Start early to catch the morning sun on the wall and avoid afternoon shadows that can cool the rock abruptly.
Pack water and light layers—weather in the Laurentians can shift quickly even during sunny days.
Bring a quickdraw set sized for sport climbs; all protection is fixed but extra hangers help with rope drag.
Six bolts lead the way to a reliable anchor, meaning climbers can focus on movement without worries over gear placements.
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