HomeClimbingGoing Postal

Going Postal - Sport Climb at Lakit Lake

Kimberley, Canada
slopers
sport climbing
single pitch
mental focus
bolt protected
technical moves
Kootenays
Length: ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Going Postal
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Going Postal is a short but mentally demanding sport climb near Lakit Lake, British Columbia. Characterized by slippery slopers and reliable bolt protection, this route is a perfect warm-up before tackling harder climbs in the area."

Going Postal - Sport Climb at Lakit Lake

In the heart of British Columbia’s Kootenays East region, just beyond the small communities of Kimberley and Cranbrook, Going Postal presents a brief yet challenging encounter for sport climbers who haven’t made peace with slab or small edges. This single-pitch route, located near serene Lakit Lake, pushes mental grit over physical comfort. The rock’s texture doesn’t offer friendly holds; instead, it challenges your grip with slippery slopers that demand focus and precise body positioning. It’s a climb that tests your head as much as your hands, making every move a quiet mental battle. The route’s moderate length belies its intensity, packing technical moves over a handful of bolts that offer security but ask for trust.

Despite its modest stature, Going Postal serves a strategic purpose in the climbing community—it often acts as a warm-up or top-rope anchor for the more demanding Redneck Rampage, a 5.13d climb nearby. This means climbers can prepare their fingers and mindset here before pushing into the steeper, more committing routes around Lakit Lake. While the rock quality is described as rough and uninspiring, the setting itself is worth the venture. The region unfolds wide views and fresh mountain air that reward your efforts.

For those plotting a visit, note that the area’s approach is through a forested zone that can be damp or slick after rain, so bring shoes with solid traction for both the walk-in and the climb. The weather in the Kootenays can shift quickly, so packing layered clothing and hydrating well is crucial. Timing your send early in the day protects you from the afternoon sun and gives you a calmer, cooler experience on the wall.

Protection is straightforward—nine bolts stretch the length of this sport pitch, providing reliable gear placement without the mess of trad racks. Still, trust in your clipping and movement; the challenge here isn’t about resting but moving cleanly on tough holds that don’t resemble typical crimps or jugs. Having strong finger strength and solid mental focus will carry you through.

Bringing your own quickdraws and a helmet is recommended, given the occasional loose debris from the rough rock surface. Taking care on the descent—usually a walk-off or short scramble—wraps up the climb with a chance to reflect on the technical challenge and the quiet beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Going Postal may not be the craggiest gem in the Rockies, but it offers a compact, focused battle that hones both your head game and your technique.

Climber Safety

The rock can be loose and rough in places, making helmet use advisable. Pay attention to your foot placements, especially on the slabby sections where slips are easy. The approach trail may be slick when wet—take care during any damp or rainy conditions.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon heat and improve grip on the slabby surface.

Wear shoes with excellent traction to manage the slick approach trail and slippery holds.

Use this climb as a warm-up or top-rope anchor before attempting nearby harder routes.

Pack layers and water, as weather can change quickly in the Kootenays.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10c
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10c rating here feels honest, leaning toward the upper end of the 10s due to the tricky, slopey holds that demand precise balance rather than pure power. Climbers expecting straightforward jugs should prepare for a mental challenge reminiscent of nearby technical face climbs like those in the Kootenay range.

Gear Requirements

The route features nine bolts for solid sport protection, making it straightforward for climbers to focus on technical moves over gear placement. Bring quickdraws and a helmet due to some loose pebble risk.

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Tags

slopers
sport climbing
single pitch
mental focus
bolt protected
technical moves
Kootenays