"Dead Soles challenges climbers with a compact, balancing act of thin, precise moves on the leftmost edge of Kokanee Slab. This single-pitch sport climb in Fraser Valley offers a sharp crux followed by a runout slab finish, demanding focus and finesse."
Perched on the Kokanee Slab, Dead Soles offers a focused burst of technical sport climbing that demands precision and calm under pressure. Located in the rugged Fraser Valley, this single-pitch, 110-foot climb takes you immediately into a sequence of thin, exacting moves that make up the crux. The rock’s surface is polished smooth in places, requiring a delicate touch and mindful footwork. As you push past the initial difficulty, the route opens into a series of balancy moves skirting up an exposed narrow dyke that feels almost alive beneath your fingertips and toes. The climbing here is compact but fulfilling, inviting you to engage fully with every subtle edge and smear.
Approaching the top, the intensity eases as the rock transitions into more straightforward terrain with a slightly runout finish rated around 5.7. Yet, don’t mistake the relaxed ending for an easy stroll—attention remains key to avoid slipping on the slabby sections. At the summit, clipped anchor bolts await to secure your descent via rappel. The surrounding landscape broadens into the lush Fraser Valley below, framed by distant peaks and dense forest, a reminder of the wild environment cradling this rock face.
Dead Soles is well suited to climbers comfortable with sustained cruxes and refined technique on sport routes. It’s a compact but engaging climb—perfect for a focused session of pushing your thin-crack skills against the natural grain of Kokanee Slab’s surface. The crisp mountain air sharpens your focus, while the quiet backdrop accentuates every tactile detail of the route, from the smallest hold to the faintest friction underfoot.
Timing your climb in the late morning to early afternoon grants the best light and warmth on this west-facing wall, as shaded sections can keep the rock cool and maintain good friction. Prepare with light but precise climbing shoes and bring chalk to negate any slickness. Hydrate well before the approach, which is a moderate trek through forest paths rich with pine scent and the distant chorus of valley birdsong.
Whether you’re seeking a technical sport climb to refine your footwork or a well-protected challenge that balances commitment and runout, Dead Soles delivers with clarity and grace. Its accessible location combined with a memorable sequence of moves makes it a standout within the Fraser Valley’s climbing offerings.
Although well bolted, the runout finish demands careful movement to avoid slips on the slabby rock. The rappel anchors are solid but ensure your ropes are long enough for a safe descent. Seasonal moss and dampness can reduce friction, so check conditions before climbing.
Start your climb in late morning to catch the sun warming the west-facing slab.
Wear sticky climbing shoes for the thin smears and small edges.
Bring extra chalk to maintain grip through the balancing crux.
Approach via forested trail—allow 20 minutes from the nearest parking area.
The route is secured with six bolts leading to rappel anchors at the top, requiring standard quickdraw setups and a rope suitable for a 110-foot rappel.
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