L’hiver des Indiens offers a compact but rewarding trad climb that demands both commitment and versatility. Located high in the Laurentians near Lac Gervais, this 65-foot route belongs to the same approach corridor as the nearby Diligente Indigène but quickly asserts its own character with a distinct crack system. The climb begins with a confident move as you step off the familiar path for Diligente Indigène, heading toward a second glue-in bolt. Here, the route takes a bold turn to the right at the base of a pronounced offwidth crack that stretches 15 to 30 centimeters wide over roughly six meters.

This offwidth section tests your crack climbing skills, presenting classic jams and chicken wings or an alternative lie-back sequence. For those equipped with cams or big bros, protection options extend comfortably across this wide crack. Without these, the two glue-in bolts provide critical security. As you push beyond the offwidth, the crack narrows, demanding tighter placements and careful footwork. The climb concludes with a slightly exposed exit to the left, requiring steady nerves and controlled movement.

This route rewards climbers who appreciate trad challenges that combine crack climbing technique with manageable exposure. The granite here calls for solid gear placement judgment, with a recommended rack including cams sized around the offwidth range to secure your ascent. The anchor consists of glue-in bolts, easing the belay setup and descent.

Approach leads you through scenic forest trails from the Lac Gervais area, winding through quiet sections of the Laurentians. Expect moderate elevation gain and well-marked paths that take about 30 minutes from the parking zone. Along the way, a crisp woodland scent mixes with the sounds of distant bird calls, grounding you before the vertical push.

Plan your climb during late spring through early fall for the most stable weather and dry rock conditions. Morning to midday climbs benefit from partial sun exposure, which warms the rock without baking it, ideal for maintaining friction in cooler temperatures. Gear up with sturdy shoes that provide grip on slabby granite transitions, and be ready to switch techniques as the crack shifts in width.

Local climbers appreciate L’hiver des Indiens for its straightforward grade and approachable single-pitch format, making it a perfect test for those seeking to refine trad crack skills in a scenic, accessible setting. Remember to double-check placements on the exposed exit and use your rack to cover the varied crack sizes efficiently. After the climb, take time to absorb the Laurentian calm that surrounds this route—quiet enough to reset your climbing mindset for the next challenge.