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Cytotoxic on the East Face of Diamondback at Skaha

Penticton, Canada
technical
bolt protected
vertical face
crux
single pitch
Okanagan views
Length: 75 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Cytotoxic
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Cytotoxic offers a compact but technical 75-foot sport climb on Diamondback’s east face at Skaha, blending precise movement with exposed vertical climbing. Key for climbers seeking a sharp challenge framed by stunning Okanagan views."

Cytotoxic on the East Face of Diamondback at Skaha

Cytotoxic carves a sleek, technical line up the sheer vertical face on the east side of Diamondback, offering climbers a stylish challenge amid British Columbia’s rugged Okanagan landscape. This single-pitch sport route stretches 75 feet across a rock face that demands precise movement and focused effort. Beginning just left of a smaller dihedral tucked beside the broad, well-known Ready to Strike corner, the climb quickly establishes rhythm as you follow a tight bolt line ascending through a series of subtle overlaps. Each clip guides you upward, testing your footwork and finger strength as you navigate tight holds and shallow edges. The route’s finale delivers a brief but demanding crux, a sharp little sting as you reach for the anchor—a fitting crescendo to a climb that balances technique with rewarding exposure. The rock’s texture and angle challenge you to stay composed, while the surrounding crags frame the endeavor with expansive views across Skaha’s rolling hills and the shimmering lake beyond. This route’s approachable length makes it ideal for a midday push, offering both the intensity of a hard sport climb and the satisfaction of an efficient send. Bolts are solid and well-placed, providing secure protection without interrupting the flow, letting climbers dial in their beta without fuss. For those familiar with the area, Cytotoxic stands out as a test of finesse rather than brute strength, a route that invites repeat attempts to refine sequence and build confidence before moving on to Skaha’s longer multi-pitch classics. The approach is straightforward, threading through open trails and sparse forest typical of this section of the Southern Crags, making access quick and hassle-free. Whether stepping up for a training tick or adding a technical challenge to your day, Cytotoxic rewards careful planning and sharp technique under British Columbia’s sunlit skies.

Climber Safety

Watch for small but sharp edges near the crux that can be slippery when wet. The bolts are solid, but the approach trail can be loose and stony—good footwear and attention on descent are essential.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length75 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid the afternoon sun hitting the east face, keeping the rock cool and comfortable.

Bring climbing shoes with precise edging capability to handle small footholds near the crux.

Hydrate well before the climb; the exposed approach has little shade and can warm quickly.

Check the bolt hangers and quickdraws locally before climbing; occasional cleaning helps maintain safe gear.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.11a
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.11a, Cytotoxic offers sustained technical moves with a subtle but distinct crux near the top that elevates it beyond a straightforward route. The grade feels accurate, demanding solid footwork and precise handholds rather than explosive power. For locals, it compares to other moderate technical climbs on the Southern Crags, but stands apart with its clean bolt line and concise length.

Gear Requirements

Equipped with 11 well-spaced bolts, Cytotoxic requires no additional gear beyond standard sport climbing equipment. A single 60m rope is ideal to manage rope drag through the brief overlaps.

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Tags

technical
bolt protected
vertical face
crux
single pitch
Okanagan views