Adventure Collective
HomeClimbingDonkey Following Carrots

Donkey Following Carrots: A Bold Sport Climb on New Brunswick’s Main Cliff

Saint John, Canada
exposed
sport climb
short approach
coastal
beginner friendly
bolt protected
Length: 70 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Donkey Following Carrots
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Donkey Following Carrots offers a 70-foot sport climb with impressive exposure along New Brunswick’s Main Cliff. Combining a short scramble, a ledge traverse, and a direct bolt-protected ascent, this route challenges climbers to engage with a dynamic, coastal rock face that demands steady focus and respect."

Donkey Following Carrots: A Bold Sport Climb on New Brunswick’s Main Cliff

Donkey Following Carrots offers climbers a compact but invigorating escape on New Brunswick’s striking Main Cliff at Green Head Cove. This 70-foot sport route invites you to engage with a rugged face that demands focus without overwhelming complexity, perfect for those who appreciate solid exposure paired with straightforward movement. The climb begins just after a short scramble — a quick warm-up that leads to a wide, secure foot ledge commanding spectacular views over the bay below. This ledge is your theatrical stage, where the rock feels alive beneath your fingertips and the wind dares you onward. You will clip your first bolt mid-traverse here, feeling the pulse of the cliff as you move confidently toward the vertical section.

The climbing then shifts into a direct ascent, following a clean bolt line to the summit where the ocean’s brisk breeze rewards your effort. The rock varies in texture and character; chossy patches remind you to stay alert while the solid bolts offer reliable protection on this exposed face. At the top, belayers and climbers alike will need to practice safe protocols—rappel anchors require knots to secure your descent properly, ensuring your exit is as smooth as your climb.

Though the route is short, its character is well-defined. The exposure keeps your senses sharp, the simple moves invite steady progress, and the surrounding landscape provides compelling motivation. Green Head Cove itself is a quiet wilderness spot on the Atlantic coast where salt air and pine combine, offering a refreshing backdrop to your climb. Warm days with light winds are ideal to avoid slippery conditions and to soak in the crag’s natural ambiance fully.

Bring shoes that can handle a mixed surface—gritty and sometimes loose rock—and gear suited for a sport route, including a light rack of quickdraws to clip the six bolts and comfort for setting up at the two rap rings. Keep your backpack light; the approach involves scrambling over uneven ground, making steady footing a priority. Hydrate well and be prepared for changing coastal weather—the climb, though accessible, demands respect from every adventurer stepping onto the ledge.

Donkey Following Carrots stands out for its approachable challenge suffused with a sense of adventure. While not a technical beast, it rewards awareness and care, perfect for climbers wanting to test themselves against the elements with minimal fuss and maximum engagement. Whether you’re seeking a quick push of adrenaline after a long drive or a new route to add to your Atlantic coast projects, this climb balances thrill and accessibility with a crisp sense of place.

Climber Safety

Loose rock patches require caution especially during the traverse; test holds carefully and avoid standing under climbers above. Always tie knots on rap anchors — the bolts alone are not enough for secure rappelling.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length70 feet

Local Tips

Tie knots when rappelling to secure your descent on the rap rings.

Expect some loose rock; keep your feet active to avoid dislodging debris.

Approach requires scrambling over uneven terrain; wear sturdy shoes.

Best climbed in dry conditions; coastal fog and rain can make holds slippery.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.4
Quality
Consensus:The 5.4 rating reflects a straightforward climb with moderate challenges. While the grade feels soft physically, the exposure and occasional loose rock increase the mental game, providing a subtle crux that keeps climbers attentive. This route offers a gentler introduction compared to tougher sport climbs in the region, suitable for those building confidence with vertical terrain.

Gear Requirements

Route is equipped with 6 bolts and 2 rap rings. Bring a light set of quickdraws for clipping, plus extra cord for tying knots at the rappel anchors to ensure safe descent.

Share Your Ascent

Upload your photos of Donkey Following Carrots and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.

Tags

exposed
sport climb
short approach
coastal
beginner friendly
bolt protected