"Club Sandwich offers three distinct pitches along textured cliffs of the Eastern Black & White sector. Its manageable grade and thoughtful protection make it a rewarding trad challenge for climbers ready to embrace a varied ascent in Quebec’s Laurentians."
Rising steadily along the craggy escarpments of the Eastern Black & White sector, Club Sandwich offers an engaging three-pitch trad climb that balances approachable moves with a touch of commitment. The first pitch demands your full attention, with the crux positioned just left of a shallow alcove, inviting you up toward a narrow ledge beneath the Temple Solaire formation. As your fingers brush the textured rock, the path veers diagonally right around a sizable block, guiding you to the Vire à Bicyclette, a natural terrace that feels like a brief pause in a continuous flow. Moving along this ledge, the route gently nudges you toward the cliff’s right edge, where the final ascent up the arete awaits.
Throughout the climb, the rock's grain offers reliable holds, but climbers should stay alert for subtle changes in texture and occasional lichen patches that hint at the mountain’s age. The route’s 330-foot length unfolds in three pitches that ebb from moderate to slightly challenging grades—5.7, 5.4, and 5.6—allowing climbers to find rhythm while savoring the Laurentians’ quiet wilderness just outside vibrant Quebec.
Protection calls for a standard rack, with a careful eye toward a few larger pieces needed for secure placements. The final anchor features glue-in bolts, having replaced a lightly compromised belay tree, so settle in confidently at the top of the climb. Despite its accessible rating, Club Sandwich offers enough adventurous spirit to keep intermediate climbers engaged, with crux moves that require precise footwork and steady balance rather than brute strength.
Plan your outing during stable weather conditions; the rock can hold moisture after rain, making some holds slippery. The approach is straightforward and keeps you immersed in mixed forest terrain, offering a gentle prelude to the climb’s vertical character. With panoramic views gradually expanding as you ascend, the route invites reflection and a measured pace, rewarding climbers who prepare thoughtfully with both gear and mindset.
In sum, Club Sandwich pairs practical climbing with a vivid journey through one of Quebec’s lesser-traveled crags. It’s ideal for those looking to stretch their trad legs without overwhelming exposure, combining natural challenges with a clear path to success and memorable moments in the Laurentian outdoors.
The original belay tree at the top pitch was removed and replaced with glue-in bolts, so always inspect all anchors carefully before trusting them. Moisture can linger after rain, creating slick holds especially near the alcove. Approach trails can be slippery with leaf cover in autumn.
Start early to maximize dry rock time and avoid afternoon shade.
Bring a rack that includes larger cams for tricky placements near the crux.
Wear shoes with sensitive edging, as footwork is key on the arete.
Double-check final anchors; bolts replaced old natural anchors for safety.
Standard trad rack with a selection of larger cams is essential. Fixed glue-in bolts secure the final anchor where the former belay tree was removed.
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