Rising abruptly from the heart of Mont Rigaud’s Main Wall, the climb known as Next Step challenges you with its clean, unyielding face and subtle shifts in balance. This route begins at a blank section of the wall, positioned just right of a towering bolt that marks the start of an intense sequence. From here, fingers search for thin edges in the smooth rock while your body learns to trust every subtle hold. The first bolt invites you into a deliberate, tension-filled move that leads immediately into the climb’s true test—the crux. A powerful stretch swings you toward the second bolt before the rock veers left into a shadowed niche beneath an overhanging roof. It’s a moment to pause, steadying breath against the rush of exertion before turning the corner and following a line upward on positive holds that reward precise footing and control.

Protection is straightforward yet demands respect—four bolts and a secure anchor system keep you safe, while careful clipping on the initial moves is vital. Using a stick clip or having a vigilant spotter on belay can make the difference between a smooth ascent and an awkward start. Experienced climbers familiar with the approach from the adjacent Killer Bunnies route will appreciate the subtle grade variation here; clipping the first bolt with the right hand trims the difficulty down to 5.9 but brings a tactical trade-off in technique.

The wall’s vertical face doesn't just test strength—it engages your focus and rhythm, encouraging mindfulness in each move and foot placement. The route's location within Montérégie’s Mont Rigaud area offers more than just technical climbing; it’s a place where the rock feels alive, waiting to be read and respected. Climbers value this sport route not only for its physical challenge but also for the quiet intensity of the engagement with the stone. A brisk approach and thoughtful preparation make this single-pitch climb an accessible yet rewarding objective for intermediate to advanced sport climbers visiting southern Quebec.

For those planning a visit, the area's latitude brings a seasonally diverse climbing window, with spring through fall offering optimal conditions. The moderate exposure and straightforward protection make it a confident choice for climbers practicing lead techniques or refining their face climbing skills. The surrounding forest hums softly during early morning ascents, adding an earthy backdrop to this focused vertical endeavor. Planning on clear weather and the right gear—sticky shoes for the thin edges, chalk to keep grip, and a rope long enough to reach the anchor—will ensure you meet each move with readiness and respect.

Next Step stands as a subtle, technical gem in the Mont Rigaud climbing lineup, rewarding those who come prepared with a measured heart and steady hands. Whether you’re chasing a satisfying burn or honing your technique, this route offers a concise, immersive climbing experience framed by the quiet strength of Quebec’s rock.