HomeClimbingDanger Zone

Danger Zone: A Bold 5.12a Sport Climb in Greenlaw

Greenlaw, Canada
sport climbing
technical face
high first bolt
boulder problem
single pitch
overhang
New Brunswick
blocky features
Length: 65 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Danger Zone
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Danger Zone is a demanding 5.12a single-pitch sport climb in Greenlaw, Canada. It tests strength and technique with a high first bolt and a challenging boulder problem beneath a blocky overhang, followed by technical corner features leading to a secure anchor."

Danger Zone: A Bold 5.12a Sport Climb in Greenlaw

At the edge of Greenlaw's rugged cliffs, Danger Zone challenges climbers with a gritty 65-foot, single-pitch ascent that rewards those ready to push their limits. The climb begins roughly three meters left and slightly uphill from the popular Top Gun route, placing you immediately into a technical approach where a well-placed stick clip for the high first bolt is highly recommended. After this move, the line offers a tense boulder problem navigating around a blocky overhang that tests your strength and precision. The rock’s texture here demands thoughtful footwork and reliable grip, as you transition to the face above. From this point, the climb eases into a series of shallow corners, inviting steady, deliberate movement up to the bolted anchor. The route’s sport protection ensures a measured risk, but the sustained technicality keeps adrenaline running through every move.

Greenlaw’s crag, situated in New Brunswick, Canada, serves up a raw climbing experience that blends solid rock with unfiltered exposure. The wall faces a general eastward direction, catching early morning light and cooling shade in the afternoon, making spring and fall ideal for climbing when temperatures are moderate and the rock is dry. Approach is straightforward but uneven — expect a brief uphill trek over natural terrain to reach the base. The surrounding landscape offers a quiet wilderness feel, with limited crowds and the distant sounds of forest wildlife framing your ascent.

For climbers aiming to conquer Danger Zone, bringing gear tailored to sport routes is essential. While fixed bolts handle the majority of protection, the high first bolt merits a stick clip to avoid a risky start from the ground. The route’s single pitch and clear anchor facilitate a quick descent by lowering, but be prepared for potentially loose rock near the top. Hydration is key on warmer days, as the exposed approach will carry you from shaded forest paths into the open rock face. Footwear with aggressive edging will serve well as the shallow corners demand precise placement. This route is perfect for climbers comfortable with 5.12a bouldering moves and technical face climbing who seek a spirited challenge away from more crowded areas.

Whether this is your project or a solid tick on your sport climbing checklist, the Danger Zone offers a raw, compelling taste of Greenlaw’s climbing potential. It is a climb that engages the mind and body equally, with a blend of power, finesse, and thoughtful movement rewarded by a satisfying top-out and broad views of the surrounding forested slopes.

Climber Safety

Be cautious of the high first bolt—stick clipping is essential to avoid a dangerous fall from the ground. Additionally, inspect the upper sections for any loose blocks before lowering off the anchor to prevent potential hazards.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length65 feet

Local Tips

Approach involves a short uphill hike over uneven terrain; sturdy footwear recommended.

Best climbed in spring or fall to avoid heat and maintain dry rock.

Use a stick clip at the first bolt for safety and to save energy on the crux start.

Check for loose rock near the anchor before lowering to ensure safety.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.12a
Quality
Consensus:The 5.12a rating feels appropriately challenging on this route, with a notably stiff crux at the initial boulder problem around the overhang that demands power and control. While the grade is firm, climbers familiar with technical sport climbs in the region will find the difficulty consistent with similar routes nearby, offering a solid test without feeling unexpectedly hard.

Gear Requirements

Stick clip strongly recommended for the high first bolt to prevent a ground fall. The climb is fully bolted with a secure anchor for lowering. Bring standard sport climbing draws and footwear with reliable edging capability.

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Tags

sport climbing
technical face
high first bolt
boulder problem
single pitch
overhang
New Brunswick
blocky features