Marge de crédit stands as a compact but intense test of finger strength just outside Quebec City, drawing climbers eager to push into the 5.11d realm. This 50-foot sport route cuts a line along a slightly overhanging wall, peppered with small, raw crimps that demand precise grip and controlled body tension. The clipped bolts offer a clear path upward, but don’t mistake clean protection for comfort: each move is a battle with rough, unforgiving edges that challenge even seasoned fingers. The anchor chains await at the top, a modest perch above forested slopes descending toward Vieux-Stoneham, where the air carries the cool hint of northern woods and the faint hum of distant life. The climb’s setting places you within a quieter slice of the Portneuf region, where the rock’s texture speaks of hard winters and slow geological shaping, offering a tactile dialogue for those willing to listen through their fingertips.

Approaching this crag begins with a short hike from the parking area just outside the small town, the trail cutting through a mix of hardwoods and firs. The walk is brief but steeper than the route itself, so bring footwear capable of handling uneven terrain and loose rock near the base. Late spring through early fall serves as the ideal climbing window here, avoiding icy conditions that can cling to shaded surfaces into early summer. As you climb, the wall’s slightly overhung angle throws your weight forward, coaxing precise footwork and encouraging deliberate breaths. Marge de crédit offers a compact, focused challenge — it’s less about endurance and more a punchy test of finger power and mental grit.

For climbers ready to take on 5.11d in a low-key setting, this route is a practical choice. The protection bolts feel solid, but the thin nature of the holds means you won’t rely on them to rest—steady composure and efficient clipping will keep you moving. The quick descent via a single rappel down the chains is straightforward, though it requires a tidy setup and attention to rope management to avoid snagging. While short, the route demands respect—cranking on small edges here sharpens your finger strength and hones your confidence on steep face climbs. Climbing Marge de crédit is less about the view at the summit and more about the tangible connection between climber and stone, about leaving the busy city behind for a moment to engage raw rock and raw effort.