"Don't Worry winds its way up a prominent crack on Another Buttress, offering a dynamic mix of crack sizes from fists to fingers. It's a solid single-pitch trad route ideal for practicing gear placements in a quiet, exposed setting near Skaha Lake."
Don't Worry is a low-angle, single-pitch trad climb set on the striking face of Another Buttress, sitting prominently within the Red Tail Group near Skaha Lake. This route offers a straightforward but rewarding experience for climbers seeking to hone their crack climbing skills across varied widths, with the added option to shift onto clean edges and flakes if you prefer. The climb begins with a roomy fist crack that tightens to hand jams before narrowing to finger-sized sections, encouraging a versatile approach that challenges technique and gear placement alike. The rock here carries a slightly softer hue of granite, with occasional seams and subtle bulges that push your balance and footwork. From the ground, you’ll hear the gentle rustle of dry grasses and distant calls of birds, adding calm to the focused rhythm of moving upwards.
Protection demands thoughtful planning; the line tends to consume a collection of cams especially hand-sized pieces and smaller, with placements stretching up to a #4 Camalot, making your rack choices critical. Be prepared to adapt as the placements vary in security, rewarding those who read the rock carefully. The climb’s approachable 5.6 rating reflects its moderate technical strain but doesn’t undermine the work of efficient gear management and controlled staking.
Reaching the base involves a brief trek across rough but manageable ground from the nearby parking, where views open to the shimmering expanse of Skaha Lake, a reminder of the outdoor playground beyond the climb itself. While the pitch is short, the rock’s texture and position make for a rewarding outing under clear skies.
Fall and spring offer crisp mornings and stable weather for redpoint attempts, while summer heats demand early starts to avoid intense sun on the south-facing wall. Suitable footwear with solid edging combined with a standard trad rack geared toward hand and finger sizes ensures a smooth day out. Hydrate thoroughly before and after the climb, as the region’s semi-arid climate can slip by unnoticed.
This climb suits beginners growing confidence in crack climbing and seasoned trad climbers looking for a solid warm-up with the bonus of clean, crisp Okanagan air. The solitude here, combined with the straightforward approach and moderate challenge, creates a perfect entry point into the Skaha trad experience, all while grounding you in a landscape that pushes your skills without overwhelming the senses.
Some protection spots can be tricky to judge, particularly in tighter finger cracks. Pay close attention to gear placement and be prepared for occasional runouts. Loose rock is minimal but remain cautious navigating the approach trail, especially when descending.
Start early in summer to avoid strong afternoon sun on the south-facing wall.
Hydrate well before the climb—Okanagan’s dry climate can catch you off guard.
Footwear with precise edging helps navigate the edged holds and flakes if you skip the crack.
Use extra slings to extend gear placements and reduce rope drag on protectable features.
Bring a full trad rack emphasizing hand-sized cams and smaller, including pieces up to a #4 Camalot. Placement variety requires adaptable gear choices, focusing on secure protection in cracks ranging from fists to fingers.
Upload your photos of Don't Worry and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.