"Laid Back offers a focused trad experience on the Storm Warning Area walls, combining accessible exposure with gear placements that encourage careful climbing. This single-pitch route suits trad climbers aiming to hone their skills in the shadow of Lion's Head’s rugged backdrop."
Laid Back presents a straightforward but rewarding trad climb on the prominent walls of the Storm Warning Area within Ontario South Bouldering and Rock. The route begins with a rappel shared with the nearby Gin and Juice climb, descending to a hanging belay situated just left of a broad ledge. From this platform, climbers push directly upward, threading gear through natural protection as they ascend beyond the first bolt. The rock demands attentive gear placements, making it an excellent warm-up for climbers looking to sharpen trad skills without overextending their limits. The single pitch covers modest vertical gain, giving a balanced pulse of exposure and manageable commitment. The surrounding atmosphere hums with the energy of the area’s bouldering zones, while Lion's Head’s rugged peaks frame distant views beyond the trees. Angling your approach for the morning or late afternoon hours can yield comfortable temperatures, as the wall receives patchy sun during the day. Timing a climb during spring or fall will avoid the humid summer heat and winter chills typical of the region. Access is user-friendly, following a well-marked trail from the parking area into a forested slope. The terrain is uneven in spots, so solid footwear and steady footing are essential, especially after rain when roots and rocks become slick. Pack water and double-check rack setup for small cams and nuts, as the protection relies on clever placements in cracks rather than fixed hardware. After completing the pitch, return to the base by re-rappelling the descent route or downclimbing with care. While Laid Back lacks the dramatic ordeal of longer climbs, its approachable nature invites climbers to connect closely with the rock and refine their trad game in a quiet, scenic pocket of Ontario’s climbing landscape.
Climbers should remain mindful during the rappel setup—anchors are fixed but require proper inspection. The approach can become slippery when wet, so caution is advised particularly after rain. Since protection depends heavily on gear placements, thorough rack preparation and climb attention are key to maintaining safety.
Start early or late in the day to avoid mid-day sun and heat on the wall.
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip to navigate slick forested approach trails.
Double-check your rack for micro cams and nuts—fixed protection is limited.
Be prepared for a careful rappel down the ascent route or a cautious downclimb.
Traditional gear is essential, focusing on small cams and nuts to protect the primarily crack-based climbing. The route begins with a rappel to a hanging belay, then ascends with gear placements between few bolts.
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