On the rugged face known as The Slabs at Bear Mountain, High Times offers a brief but intense encounter with vertical granite that demands precision and nerve. This route, perched on the upper right section of the slabby wall, challenges climbers with a succession of shallow pockets and dishes that trace a clean, direct line upward. At only 20 feet, it’s a single pitch that tests your finesse on friction and subtle holds rather than sheer power. The rock’s coarse texture provides essential grip, but the sparse features leave little room for error.

This climb encourages a technical approach, ideal for climbers comfortable with 5.9 R ratings where protection is minimal—High Times is a solo or top-rope venture by necessity, as it lacks gear placements. The thin pockets require quiet confidence and smooth movement, rewarding those who engage fully with the stone beneath their fingers.

The surrounding environment adds to the experience: Bear Mountain’s granite slabs rise steadily, framed by open skies and distant views of New Brunswick’s rolling landscape. Though modest in scale, the route’s exposure on the upper slab gives a sense of height and isolation that sharpens focus and heightens awareness. Approaching The Slabs is straightforward, following well-trodden paths that wind through mixed woodland, offering a quiet contrast to the open rock above.

From a practical standpoint, bring shoes tuned for friction climbing, and approach the climb with the mindset of working delicately with the subtle holds. Considering the lack of protection, ensure your rope system is secure and that your belayer is vigilant. Best climbed in dry conditions, the granite’s texture becomes unforgiving when wet or damp. The single pitch allows for a quick send or a valuable warm-up before tackling longer routes in the area.

High Times frames a brief window into slab climbing that mixes technical movement with a raw connection to the rock. It’s a route where the calm surface belies the need for careful footwork and decisive moves. For anyone drawn to slab routes with a lean protection profile, Bear Mountain’s upper wall delivers a compact but spirited test—one that leaves a lasting impression far beyond its short length.