Carving a line up the left side of Bon Echo’s slab, Formication offers a straightforward but character-rich trad climb that invites climbers to connect with the granite’s smooth face. The route covers approximately 30 meters, placing a premium on steady footwork and route-finding as you ascend toward a secure two-bolt belay at the top. For those seeking a touch more challenge, the direct variation threads the center of the slab, requiring precise moves past a single bolt and nudging the difficulty to 5.8.

Located within Ontario South Bouldering and Rock, Bon Echo is a quiet corner for traditional climbing, where careful gear placement becomes an integral part of the experience. The protection on Formication is notably sparse, particularly if you decide to tackle the direct line, so this route rewards thoughtful rack selection and a calm approach underfoot. The slab itself feels alive—a slick canvas that tests balance and nerve more than brute strength, with the rock’s texture offering subtle holds that feel both planted and shifting as the sun travels across the sky.

Approaching the route from the main area, expect a short walk through open forest that buzzes with the sounds of nearby waters and the occasional call of local birds. The cliff faces east, welcoming morning light that warms the rock but keeps it cool through the afternoon, making early to mid-day climbs especially pleasant. With only one pitch to manage, Formication suits climbers looking to sharpen slab technique or those easing into trad climbing with a manageable challenge that still demands focus and respect.

Practical gear considerations include carrying a light rack with smaller cams and nuts—larger cams find little purchase here—and brushing up on slab techniques before adventuring out. Dry conditions are key, as moisture quickly dulls friction and raises the potential for slips. The belay at the top feels secure, offering a stable spot to regroup or join fellow climbers for shared beta and stories.

Formication’s appeal lies in its balance of accessible climbing and the mental game of reading subtle features on a less-grounded slab. This is a climb that respects patience, rewarding steady hands and an eye for clean placements more than raw power. It’s a glimpse into Bon Echo’s mixed climbing identity—part wilderness quietude, part engaging challenge—a route that encourages you to move intentionally and savor each step upward.