"Kegel Krunch offers a concise, sport climb on Mont Rigaud’s Main Wall, blending slab techniques with Gunks-style features. Ideal for climbers seeking a solid one-pitch challenge with excellent protection and a steady rhythm of movement."
Kegel Krunch offers a straightforward but engaging climb on the Main Wall of Mont Rigaud, Quebec, designed to challenge climbers who appreciate clean sport routes with technical features and solid protection. From the ground, the route presents a distinctive diamond-shaped slab covered in positive holds that feel secure under your fingers and feet, inviting a steady rhythm of movement. The climb begins with deliberate footwork, coaxing you upward until you reach a well-placed bolt that marks the first key transition. Here, the route pivots left, guiding you onto the slab’s edge. The rock subtly shifts angle, demanding balance and precise body positioning. Moments later, a striking v-shaped crack comes into view—a nod to the famed Gunks style, where friction and delicate jams encourage careful technique.
Beyond the v-slot, two more bolts protect a welcoming stretch of easier climbing leading to a comfortable ledge at the top. This natural resting spot offers space to savor the surroundings: the calm forested slopes of Montérégie stretch out below, while a gentle breeze carries the subtle scents of pine and earth. It’s a route that blends approachable difficulty with a thoughtful lineage, perfect for climbers sharpening their sport skills or looking for a reliable one-pitch challenge with good protection.
Mont Rigaud itself, sitting just a short drive from Montreal, provides an accessible escape for regional climbers. The approach is swift, and the Main Wall’s modest elevation means you can expect reasonably quick climbing sessions without sacrificing scenic value. Though the climb is short, it teaches important lessons about slab climbing technique and route reading—key skills for anyone looking to expand their repertoire beyond steep faces or overhangs.
For your trip, sturdy climbing shoes with excellent rubber will help you maintain grip on the slab sections. Bringing a standard sport rack with quickdraws, or opting for top-rope setups, works well here since there are five bolts plus a secure anchor. Timing your visit outside peak wet seasons ensures the rock stays dry and reliable. For climbers seeking a gateway climb in Quebec’s climbing scene, Kegel Krunch stands out with its clear movement and a rewarding top ledge that invites a brief moment of quiet reflection before descending.
While well-protected with bolts, slab climbing’s reliance on friction means that a single misstep can lead to slips. Ensure your shoes have sufficient grip and avoid climbing when the rock is wet or icy. The ledge at the top is spacious, but the approach to the anchor requires attention to avoid loose gravel.
Arrive early in the day to avoid afternoon shadows on the slab.
Wear shoes with sticky rubber for better friction on smooth slab holds.
Check the weather forecast as slab climbs lose traction when damp.
Top-rope anchors are straightforward for less experienced climbers seeking a safer ascent.
The climb is protected by five bolts spaced evenly along the route, with a fixed anchor at the top, making quickdraws and a standard sport rack sufficient. The solid bolt placements accommodate confident clipping and minimize fall potential on the slab sections.
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