Perched along the rugged faces of McCrae Lake in Ontario, Desperado carves out a compelling challenge for climbers ready to engage with steep, technical moves in a compact, single-pitch sport climb. This route edges upward along a slab that beckons careful footwork, graduating into smaller holds that test your grip and balance as you approach a critical crux above a ledge. The rock here feels alive, its sharp angles and textured surfaces daring you to commit fully. The move at roughly two-thirds height is a demanding moment—while the ledge below offers a reassuring place to pause and reset, the climb presses on with tighter climbing through an upper dihedral that rewards persistence with exposure and a satisfying sense of flow.

Expect a climb totaling around 60 feet, concise yet intense, with a handful of bolts strategically placed for protection. As you ascend, the initial easy slabs warm you into the rhythm, but be ready for that delicate section where handholds thin and footholds shrink, making body positioning critical. Beyond the crux, the route eases up momentarily as you scramble to the ledge, offering the option to belay here or push onward to the summits' anchors. The final stretch navigates past a few more bolts on steeper terrain, landing you at secure rappel stations with clear views of the surrounding granite.

This route's appeal lies in its blend of accessibility and focused difficulty—a perfect choice for sport climbers looking to sharpen precise slab technique combined with a technical crux. You’ll want quickdraws and a long sling to efficiently manage the intermediate anchors, especially if opting to tackle it in a single continuous pitch. The rock quality is solid, but the nature of the technical moves demands respectful attention to foot placement and balance rather than brute strength.

Accessing Desperado is straightforward: a short approach hike places you at the base of these striking rock faces, documented well by local climbing maps and lightly trafficked enough to maintain tranquility. The climb's orientation catches afternoon sun, which warms the granite but avoids overheating, making it ideal for spring through fall ascents. Descending involves a controlled rappel from fixed anchors, with minimal scramble needed to reach back to the trailhead.

For anyone eager to immerse themselves in Ontario’s south bouldering and climbing precincts, Desperado stands as a sharpening stone—both approachable and technically demanding enough to leave a lasting impression. Prepare for deliberate movement, steady breathing, and moments where the rock seems almost to challenge your resolve. This is a route that teaches focus, poise, and commitment in a concise, rewarding package.