Sitting silently on the rugged cliffs of Cochrane Lane, "It's All a Joke" offers a straightforward yet gratifying trad climbing experience for those eager to carve their route up New Brunswick’s rocky faces. This three-pitch climb stretches about 250 feet, presenting solid rock and trusted protection that invites climbers of moderate skill to engage with the terrain confidently. From the moment you start on the left side of the face, about five feet shy of the neighboring route "Up Up and Away," the rock feels reassuring beneath your fingers. Jug holds make the first moves inviting, leading you smoothly to a small ledge where the climb takes a subtle but deliberate turn: a careful step rightward, then upward and leftward through a protective flake system before you reach a second ledge. The first belay spot gives you the option to pause, anchored by solid gear or a tree if you prefer a natural belay.

Pitch two unravels into a dance with the cliff’s natural corner. Moving left and upward from the tree anchor, you engage a left-facing corner system that challenges your technique with a series of ledges punctuated by a final steep wall. Though short, this wall demands your full focus—its gradient pushing you just enough to feel the reward waiting above. At the end of this pitch, you have an option: rappel down safely or continue onto the third pitch, tapping into "North of the Border"’s classic finish to reach the very top of the cliff.

The rock itself is dependable and clean, consistently providing solid protection placements throughout the climb—meaning you can trust your gear with confidence. The single rack to 3 inches covers most protection needs, with trees acting as natural anchors to ease the belay process. The approach into Cochrane Lane Cliffs is straightforward, with the nearby locale of Welsford providing a quiet but accessible gateway into this slice of New Brunswick’s climbing landscape.

This route’s charm lies in its balance: easy yet engaging climbing paired with a clear, logical line up the rock. It’s a good choice for climbers wanting to build their trad skills in a setting that offers both security and scenic satisfaction. Don’t expect high drama here, but do expect solid moves and a trusted environment where the rocks hold firm beneath your hands.

When planning your climb, consider starting early in the day to avoid afternoon heat, as the face catches sun in its southern exposure. Wear sturdy footwear with good edging capability, and bring plenty of water for the approach and climb. The descent calls for careful rappel or a walk off via the adjacent routes, so be prepared with sufficient rope length and double-check your anchor setups. With solid beta and practical gear needs, "It's All a Joke" is ready to deliver a no-surprise day on the rock that balances adventure with safety.