HomeClimbingEasy Route

Easy Route on The Pulpit in the Purcell Mountains

Creston, Canada
slab
west face
easy alpine
single pitch
small rack
Purcell Mountains
Length: ft
Type: Trad, Alpine
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Easy Route
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"The Easy Route on The Pulpit offers a single-pitch slab climb that combines alpine charm with accessible movement. Ideal for those seeking a gentle introduction to Purcell Mountains trad climbing, it rewards steady footwork and respect for clean rock with sweeping mountain views."

Easy Route on The Pulpit in the Purcell Mountains

Carving a straightforward yet rewarding line up the west face slabs, the Easy Route on The Pulpit offers climbers an inviting alpine experience framed by the rugged Purcell Mountains. From a camp perched on the mountain's east side, the approach shifts your perspective, as the west face callously confronts you with smooth slab rock, testing balance and careful footwork rather than brute strength or complex moves. The mountain’s presence here is palpable—winds whisper along exposed ledges, and the vast scale of the Columbia Mountains unwraps beneath your gaze, pushing you to appreciate both the climb and the surroundings.

Expect a single pitch that moves steadily upward, ideal for climbers seeking a friendly alpine adventure without the complexity of technical placements. The protection calls for a small rack, reflecting the route’s welcoming nature, yet it demands vigilance—slabs can be deceptive and require focused foot placement to maintain security.

The approach itself weaves through alpine meadows and rocky scrambles, offering glimpses of dense forest patches that guard the route’s base. The ascent’s simplicity belies the mountain’s grandeur, making it a perfect choice for early season efforts or as a warm-up before tackling more demanding lines nearby. Timing your climb to avoid the heat of midday benefits from the west-facing aspect, which basks in afternoon sun but cools quickly as day fades.

Presence on this mountain feels like a dialogue with nature—winded pines stretch over granite, shadows play long in the late afternoon, and the distant rumble of mountain streams shapes the soundscape. While approachable, the climb requires respect; a small rack and cautious footwork protect against the moderate exposure of slab terrain.

Plan for an accessible yet rewarding day by packing layered clothing, water resistant shoes with sticky rubber, and enough hydration—the mountain doesn’t offer conveniences, but rewards preparedness with views and climbing flow. The Purcells remain less crowded than famous ranges nearby, enhancing the sense of discovery. Whether approaching from camp or daytripping from local base areas, this climb invites both reflection and mastery on clean alpine rock.

Climber Safety

While protection is limited to a small rack, slab sections require careful movement to avoid slips. The approach can be uneven and steep, so watch footing and plan for changing weather typical at alpine elevation.

Route Details

TypeTrad, Alpine
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Approach from the east camp early to avoid afternoon heat on west slabs.

Wear shoes with solid rubber for confident footing on smooth slab surfaces.

Use a small rack with well-placed pro, as protection options are limited but sufficient.

Bring layered clothing; afternoon sun is strong, but temperatures drop quickly as shadows lengthen.

Route Rating

Difficulty
Easy 5th
Quality
Consensus:The Easy 5th rating reflects a climb that’s accessible but requires care on slab terrain where slips can be costly. The grade feels soft for seasoned climbers but maintains a steady challenge for those gaining slab experience. Protection is straightforward, yet the smooth rock demands precise footwork—a gentle introduction compared to more technical Purcell climbs.

Gear Requirements

A small rack suffices to protect the route, focusing on nuts and small cams suitable for slab placements.

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Tags

slab
west face
easy alpine
single pitch
small rack
Purcell Mountains