"Manzlaughter is a sharp single-pitch sport climb on Quadra Island’s South Peak Crags. With a steep approach and an exposed finish, this 5.9 line offers confident climbers a clean challenge surrounded by coastal wilderness."
Manzlaughter offers a crisp, focused climbing experience perched on the South Peak Crags of Manzanita Wall, part of the rugged Chinese Mountains on Quadra Island. This single-pitch route, measuring 50 feet, challenges climbers with a steep rib initial section that demands solid footwork and confident hand placement. The route’s face reveals a string of dependable holds leading upward to a ledge, a natural pause before the final push. Here, exposure grows, and the rock holds firm beneath your fingers, ending with a bold, exposed finish that rewards steady nerves and sharp technique. The granite feels alive under your touch, rough and gaining texture as you ascend. It’s a climb that’s approachable for those comfortable with 5.9 sport routes but carries enough adventure to keep even seasoned climbers alert.
Getting to Manzanita Wall itself is part of the adventure—Quadra Island’s coastal forests surround the area, with salty sea breezes mixing with pine-scented air. The South Peak Crags sit above a landscape that slips toward the ocean, offering views that reward any downtime between moves. As you clip bolts on Manzlaughter, note that protection is well established, with seven bolts securing the line and rap rings set for a smooth, safe descent.
This route is ideal for climbers who want a clean, direct line with moderate challenge in a remote, quiet setting. Quadra Island may not flood the guidebooks, but for those who make the journey, it provides a solid outing where the rock demands respect but rewards persistence and focus. Preparation means sturdy sport climbing shoes, a light rack for clipping, and hydration to match the exertion under variable coastal weather. Timing your climb for mid-morning or early afternoon optimizes shade and warmth during cooler months.
Whether you’re stepping onto Manzlaughter as a focused training route or a serene island escape, the climb balances thrill and practicality with a clear path that feels honest and engaging. It’s a worthy addition to any Pacific Northwest climbing excursion.•
While the protection is well bolted, be cautious with the exposed final moves where a fall could swing you away from the cliff face. Use the rap rings for descent to avoid scrambling down dangerous sections with loose rock and limited footholds.
Start climbing mid-morning to avoid damp, cold rock in the early hours.
Bring shoes with a sticky rubber sole for the steep rib section.
Hydrate well before the climb; there’s no reliable water source nearby.
Use the rap rings for a clean and safe rappel; avoid downclimbing the exposed finish.
Seven bolts secure the entire 50-foot route, with solid rap rings at the top for an easy rappel descent. A light sport rack focused on quickdraws is sufficient here.
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