Hiking With Howie offers a focused on-the-edge climbing experience at Lower Red Tail’s heart, where textured rock meets precise movement. The route begins with a slabby section that demands a careful balance of footwork and body tension, setting a deliberate pace right from the start. As you move upward, the climb introduces a series of small roof features that challenge your ability to read holds and engage upper body strength without losing rhythm. These key sections punctuate the effort with bursts of power, inviting climbers to push beyond the routine. The final pitch opens onto a slightly steeper face that rewards sustained focus with its rough texture and subtle holds—perfect for those who enjoy calculated, steady climbing rather than impulsive moves. The bolted protection ensures a secure ascent while keeping the line clean and direct.

Locating Hiking With Howie is straightforward, situated within the Red Tail Group near Skaha in British Columbia’s Okanagan region. The setting captures the dry, warm climate typical of this part of Canada, with the sharp latitude and longitude coordinates (49.43914, -119.56753) placing it in a landscape shaped by rugged cliffs and open skies. The approach is manageable, leading through open shrub-steppe terrain that hums with the sounds of local wildlife and rustling leaves in the gentle breeze. The single-pitch climb spans approximately 55 feet, making it accessible for a quick session or as part of a longer day exploring nearby routes.

With a moderate 5.9 rating, Hiking With Howie suits climbers comfortable with intermediate sport routes who are interested in honing their technique on slab and slightly overhanging faces. The route receives an average star rating of 2.6 from 24 votes, reflecting its straightforward nature and utility as a solid training climb rather than a high-adventure classic. Though not overly complex, the variations in rock angle and inclusion of roof features provide enough dynamism to keep it engaging.

Essential gear includes a standard sport rack, note 5 bolts along the route plus bolted anchors offering reliable protection. Climbers should bring shoes with excellent edging capability, chalk for grip, and a well-practiced knack for pacing their energy efficiently across slab and roof transitions. Timing your climb to avoid the harsh midday sun will help maintain focus and prevent early fatigue in this warm climate.

The broader Red Tail Group boasts a quiet, unpretentious atmosphere—ideal for those looking to escape crowds while soaking in steady rock and open-air vistas. Despite its approachable nature, caution remains vital: slab sections can become slippery when wet, and the small roof features occasionally limit resting possibilities.

In summary, Hiking With Howie invites you to engage with the rock on your terms, blending technical moves and practical protection in a comfortable yet invigorating setting. Whether you’re refining sport techniques or chasing fall-season climbs in British Columbia’s Okanagan, this route delivers a succinct measure of challenge and reward.