Meanderthal Man carves a brief but punchy line on the rock faces of Mt Wells, just a short drive from Victoria on Vancouver Island. This single-pitch sport route demands a strong, deliberate approach from the moment you clip into the first bolt. The bottom section challenges climbers with a burst of powerful moves that test finger strength and body tension, forcing you to wrestle with the wall’s steep angle and compact holds. As you climb past the fourth bolt, the route opens into a slightly more relaxed sequence, allowing your limbs a brief recovery before reaching the top anchors where two chains share the finish with the adjacent Two-Step route.

The rock itself feels solid and clean, with few loose edges to worry about, making each move reliable but unforgiving. Because the crux sits low, it sets the tone immediately—any hesitation here costs precious energy, so it’s wisely guarded by about seven closely spaced bolts. The route's 50 feet length means it packs intensity into a short climb, making it a sharp but rewarding testpiece for climbers stepping up into the 5.10 range.

Located on the southeast face of Mt Wells, this climb gets plenty of morning sun which helps dry the rock quickly after coastal rain—an important consideration on Vancouver Island’s often damp climate. Midday or early afternoon ascents bring warm light but can raise the climb’s demand, as the rock heats up and adds a layer of challenge to grip. Because it shares the finish with the Two-Step route, it’s common to find fellow climbers adding a second line to their day. The approach is straightforward and brief, with well-marked trails drifting through coastal forest before opening onto the base.

For gear, 7 bolts provide consistent protection through the powerful crux, so a standard sport rack and quickdraws suffice. However, climbers should focus on staying clipped and conserving energy in the first half, where the climbing feels most strenuous. Despite the compact nature of the climb, plan your efforts carefully and take time to manage your breathing and footwork under pressure.

In sum, Meanderthal Man offers a sharp hit of athletic climbing close to Victoria’s outdoor hubs. It appeals to climbers seeking a concise route that balances power moves with solid protection and a rewarding finish. Ideal for warm-up circuits or a focused afternoon of technical sport climbing, this climb invites a confident push against the rock in one of British Columbia’s accessible climbing spots.