Rising boldly from the Right Wall sector of La Bleue, Marie offers climbers a striking introduction to Quebec’s Laurentians. This single-pitch trad route stretches over 100 feet, demanding a confident hand in crack climbing and sharp awareness of rope dynamics. The climb opens with a spectacular corner crack that draws you upward toward a solitary cedar tree perched near the top. This tree isn't just a scenic landmark; it’s a potential handhold or rest spot, though the move past it can be bypassed by committing to the adjacent left wall crack for those seeking a cleaner line.

The corner here is alive with texture, its edges and seams breathing under your fingers, inviting you into a rhythm of jamming and stemming. Above the tree, the climb continues into another clean and compelling corner that calls for a #3 cam placement—a secure point but one that demands precision, as the rope’s stretch on the next moves can catch you off guard and settle you square onto a narrow ledge. This feature adds a technical element beyond pure physicality, encouraging climbers to think strategically about protection and positioning before pushing through.

Surrounding the climb, the Right Wall’s rugged face basks in the cool shade, offering welcome relief on warm days. The rock’s grainy texture assures solid friction for hand and foot holds throughout the ascent. Accessibility to Marie is straightforward yet requires focus; the approach winds through forested paths dotted with pine and spruce, their scent crisp in the air. The climb’s location in Val-David places it within reach of the vibrant outdoor communities of the Laurentians, where post-climb celebrations and gear shops await.

While the grade registers at 5.9, Marie delivers more than a straightforward challenge. The route’s combination of physical crack climbing, tactical placement, and environmental features makes it a memorable outing for intermediate climbers looking to test their trad skills. The area itself—part of a well-known Canadian climbing region—is appreciated for its unassuming access and well-protected lines, making it a destination where climbers can balance adventure with solid safety.

If you plan to take on Marie, come prepared with a standard rack focused on cams suitable for hand- and finger-sized cracks. The climb’s natural features do most of the work, but managing rope drag around the tree and ledge is key to a smooth ascent. Early season climbs or cooler shoulder months are ideal to avoid the warmth and enjoy the wall’s shaded aspects, with daylight lingering into comfortable afternoon hours.

Marie is a climb that rewards patience and respect for the rock. It offers the tangible joy of crack climbing wrapped in a landscape that invites focus and appreciation of nature’s subtle challenges. When standing at the base, looking up at that cedar-ready corner, you already begin to feel the pull of the climb—a call to move deliberately, protect wisely, and engage fully.