HomeClimbingHeart Shaped Box

Heart Shaped Box at Raven Crag

Banff, Alberta Canada
left-facing corner
technical crux
sport
Bolted
short pitch
granite
Banff climbing
Length: ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Heart Shaped Box
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Heart Shaped Box challenges climbers with a distinctive left-facing corner on Raven Crag’s impressive granite wall. Technical crimps lead to a demanding top crux, making this sport pitch a sharp test in the heart of Banff National Park’s rugged wilderness."

Heart Shaped Box at Raven Crag

Heart Shaped Box stands as a bold test of technical agility on the sport routes of Banff National Park. Located on Raven Crag’s jagged face, this one-pitch climb demands precise finger work and steady feet through a distinctive left-facing corner. Once an unfinished project, the route has been thoroughly cleaned and equipped with fresh bolts, turning it into a polished challenge for climbers ready to push into the 5.11c/d grade. As you climb, the corner’s irregular holds require a mix of delicate crimps and subtle body tension, setting the stage for a crux that tightens near the top. The rock shifts from textured edges to slender rails—each move a negotiation with the stone’s quirks. This route shares its anchor with the adjacent TellTale first pitch, linking it seamlessly into the network of climbs peppering Raven Crag. Approaching the wall, you'll sense the raw, cool mountain air mingled with the distinct scent of alpine pines. The climb’s exposure frames sweeping views of the Banff wilderness, while the crack slants challenge your focus and footwork in equal measure. Follow practical advice on gear preparation and timing to maximize your chances of sending. Given the climb’s technical crux and sport protection, it's well-suited for experienced climbers comfortable with sustained pocket and crimp sequences. The route’s length may be modest, but the precision it demands makes it a memorable test on Banff’s granite. Plan your day to climb in morning to midday sunlight for optimum grip, and keep hydration top of mind as the alpine environment can dry you out quickly. With bolted security and minimal approach, Heart Shaped Box offers a compelling blend of adventure and technical climbing in a spectacular natural setting.

Climber Safety

The corner’s shape requires clear foot placements; watch for slick spots on the smoother holds near the crux. Because the route shares an anchor with TellTale pitch 1, coordinate rope management carefully to avoid tangling during descent.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid direct afternoon sun and keep the rock cool.

Wear shoes with sensitive toe edges for the tight crimps in the corner.

Hydrate well before climbing to offset dry, alpine air.

Share anchors with TellTale pitch 1 to streamline your rappel or walk-off.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.11c/d
Quality
Consensus:The 5.11c/d grade on Heart Shaped Box is an accurate reflection of the route’s sustained technical moves. While not overly powerful, the climb demands precision and patience, featuring a crux that tightens the difficulty near the top. Compared to neighboring routes, the challenge leans more on fine handholds and balanced foot placements rather than brute strength, making it a fresh test for climbers comfortable with technical sport lines.

Gear Requirements

Fully bolted route requiring no additional gear beyond standard sport climbing draws and helmet. The bolts are well-spaced but demand precise clipping through the technical crux. Bring at least 12 quickdraws to be safe.

Share Your Ascent

Upload your photos of Heart Shaped Box and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.

Tags

left-facing corner
technical crux
sport
Bolted
short pitch
granite
Banff climbing