Laas Rocket carves a striking silhouette on The Oven wall, presenting climbers with a compelling mix of overhung slab climbing and technical moves that demand both strength and finesse. Situated on the North Wall of Big Chief within Truckee River Canyon, California, this sport route stretches approximately 40 feet up a face that teases with deceptive angles. At first glance, the slab appears moderate, but the reality pushes climbers into a sustained sequence that blends balance and power, punctuated by three prominent bulges that loom like hurdles on the ascent.

Starting on the left side of The Oven, Laas Rocket hooks you into its rhythm quickly. Early climbing rewards with moderate holds, but soon a tense traverse forces you to lean into exposure, testing your mental control as your body drifts rightward on that delicate line. The movements require precise foot placements, where the rock’s texture offers subtle friction underfoot, demanding confident edging and smearing skills. This section is the unofficial crux zone and expertly primes the climber for the tougher sequences ahead.

Beyond the traverse, the wall leads back left toward the anchor, guiding you through a final, raw challenge. The last handful of moves push the difficulty into solid 5.10c effort, bordering on low 5.11, with a powerful and testing mantle that feels much harder than the opening bolts suggest. While guidebooks might list this route as a 5.10a, many climbers find that the rating softens the true intensity of the ending moves. For those eyeing a bold send, patience and precise clipping technique will pay off.

Laas Rocket is protected by six bolts leading to a shared two-bolt anchor with the adjacent line, High Tide (5.11c). The spacing is reasonable but demands on-point clipping tactics, especially around the traverse where momentum can pull away gear placements. The rock quality in this region is solid granite, offering reliable friction and stable holds but occasional patches that benefit from solid confidence in your footwork.

Accessing Laas Rocket involves a manageable approach from the Truckee River Canyon trail, with a short scramble up to The Oven’s base. The trail itself is straightforward, winding through the pine-scented forest floor with crisp mountain air filling your lungs. Early morning or late afternoon climbs are ideal as the north-facing wall holds shade for much of the day, sparing you from direct sun during summer’s heat. Climbing here in spring through early fall offers the best conditions; winter can bring slick slabs and icy rock.

Because The Oven can attract crowds, especially at the shared anchor with High Tide, climbers should plan days and times to avoid peak weekend traffic. Soloing is a no-go given the overhung nature and sustained difficulty. Prepare with sturdy shoes offering balanced sensitivity and solid traction, and consider taping fingers for the sustained gripping required on this demanding route. Hydrate well before and after the climb, as the altitude and dry air can sneak up on unsuspecting visitors.

Beyond the physical challenge, Laas Rocket rewards with sweeping canyon views from its top anchors—where the Truckee River meanders below, daring adventurers to explore its depths after the climb. This route is a sharp shot of adrenaline coupled with thoughtful movement, ideal for sport climbers ready to test their mettle on a route that both teases and demands respect.