Corvette Summer sits just above the Eau Clair Campground in Kananaskis, Alberta, offering a short but sharp encounter for climbers looking to reconnect with the raw, old-school spirit of slab trad climbing. This route demands mental grit over physical strength, presenting a sparse bolt line peppered with runouts that will test your nerve and gear placement skills in equal measure. Its two pitches stretch across roughly 140 feet of steep slab, revealing a quiet stone face that challenges you through delicate footwork and careful balance rather than powerful moves.

The approach is a swift ten-minute trek from the campground, crossing a patch of forest before ascending a steep, rooted hillside to reach the base. Once on the slab, the climbing engages you immediately: beginning at a small cluster of bolts, you move upward through carefully spaced protection that forces you to pick your placements with an eye towards safety and efficiency. Between the third bolt and the fourth, you'll face the real mental game—the spacing widens significantly and the rock feels more runout. Adding to the challenge is a loose flake off-route that you must avoid to prevent dislodging debris.

Corvette Summer offers a glimpse into a climbing style that many modern routes have left behind: the tension of runout sections mixed with the responsibility of placing your own gear. While bolts are present, removable protection like pins and small nuts are essential, with some placements tricky due to slab’s nature. The route’s 5.9 R rating warns of serious consequence if you let hesitation or complacency creep in, so this climb is best suited for those who embrace mental challenges and understand the demands of secure placements.

At the top of the second pitch, a solid two-bolt anchor awaits, allowing a careful rappel descent back to the slab’s base. The descent requires a controlled swing to the climber’s right, where loose rock can be stirred up if you’re not careful. Keep helmets on and remain aware of your movements on the descent to avoid unnecessary hazards.

If you’re camping at Eau Clair, Corvette Summer is an ideal late afternoon or early evening project to break up the day with focused climbing. Otherwise, parking is limited and must be approached responsibly by using spots in a nearby open meadow or near the campground entrance without blocking access. The route’s remoteness and loose rock above it mean it is not suited for children or pets, keeping the focus sharp and safety paramount.

In sum, Corvette Summer stands as a compelling test for slab climbers eager for a dose of classic trad flavor with a mental edge. It’s not a sport route and should be approached with respect for its unique style and inherent risks. If you’re prepared for runouts, careful pro placement, and a short but intense slab experience, this forgotten crag above Eau Clair delivers a memorable ascent tucked into the heart of Kananaskis Country.