Last Banana presents an intense, focused challenge on the sunlit expanse of Maternal Wall, located in the heart of British Columbia’s Skaha cliffs. This sport climb stretches 100 feet over a single pitch, threading a line peppered with a sequence of demanding mini cruxes that push your technique and composure with precise intensity. Despite its relentless nature, the route offers well-timed rests that grant brief reprieves, allowing climbers to recalibrate before powering through the next section.

The rock here is solid and clean, gripping your fingertips as you navigate a series of moves that demand a mix of strength, balance, and sharp footwork. Matte gray rock faces absorb the afternoon sun, warming the surface and enhancing friction, while the gentle Okanagan winds tease the edges of the climb, adding a subtle element of environmental challenge.

Situated within the broader Maternal Group, the climb benefits from relatively straightforward access: a short approach snakes up from the base area, winding through sparsely vegetated terrain spotted with hardy shrubs and patches of lichen. This area enjoys stunning views across the canyon and lake below, rewarding climbers with a sense of place and perspective once the rope is coiled and the gear packed.

Protection consists of 11 well-spaced bolts that track the route’s line with care. Their positioning eases rope drag while supporting a confident ascent. While the spacing between bolts is generally comfortable, the sequence of technical moves places emphasis on precise clipping and efficient climbing — the physical and mental flow aligns tightly with the route’s character.

Last Banana’s grade of 5.12a suits climbers ready to stretch beyond the well-practiced, offering a worthy yet fair test. It challenges with hardness rather than bombproof holds, so anyone eyeing this route should hone their finger strength, clipping agility, and sustained movement skills prior to arrival. Being a single pitch climb keeps the day’s focus sharp and allows for quality time soaking in the surroundings beyond the rock itself.

Practical advice: start early to avoid the heat of midday sun hitting the face directly, bring shoes with solid edging and sticky rubber to handle the subtle smears and crimps, and hydrate well since the dry Okanagan climate can quickly sap your energy. Local climbers recommend checking the weather ahead; while the area is fairly dry, a sudden cool breeze or light shower might change the friction dynamics unexpectedly.

Should you plan your next trip to Skaha’s Maternal Wall, Last Banana offers a vivid climb that blends straightforward logistics with a punchy challenge. It’s a route that demands your focus and rewards your effort with the unfiltered satisfaction born from topping out on a precisely executed sport climb.