Painted Black carves a striking path across Cochrane Lane Cliffs’ dark face, standing out as a singular test of control and composure for Trad climbers in the Welsford region. From the base, the blackened wall commands attention—stark and unyielding, it dares you to engage its sheer, 85-foot length. The route punctuates its steely profile with three fixed bolts placed strategically around the crux, offering moments of security amid predominantly traditional protection. Beyond the initial challenge, the climb eases into featured cracks and flakes, inviting climbers to settle into a rhythm as they approach the shared anchor with A Never Ending Story.

Starting with deliberate moves around the bolts—where precision and calm are vital—this 5.9 PG13 route tests your ability to read the rock and place gear wisely above the bolts, where protection becomes more dependent on solid placements. The route’s texture, gritty and coarse, rewards confident smears and carefully balanced footwork. The wall faces northwest, catching afternoon light that highlights subtle ridges and pockets, while the surrounding Cochrane Lane cliffs open out to panoramic views of the lush canopy below and the distant ridgelines. The approach through the Gallery Wall area is straightforward but requires attention, trekking across rocky ledges with sparse markings that encourage a steady pace and a clear eye for trail signs.

Climbers venturing here should be prepared for the route’s unique character— it blends accessible bolt protection for the crux with the commitment of placing PG-rated trad gear higher up, making it a solid mid-grade challenge where mental focus is as important as physical skill. The rock’s condition is consistently sound, but the PG13 rating signals a need for respect and readiness to commit to placements that might test runners’ opinions. The descent wraps up with a shared rappel—double-rope down the anchor point, smoothly returning you to the base with minimal fuss.

For those eyeing Painted Black, timing matters. Afternoons bring warming sun to the face, drying moisture quickly and emphasizing friction, while spring through early fall holds the most stable weather conditions for a clean send. Footwear with sticky rubber is essential, and a rack equipped for traditional placements—ranging from small cams to larger, uncertain crack sizes—is the pathway to success. Hydrate well and leave space in your pack for the steady effort this climb demands. Painted Black is a measured dance on a formidable wall, giving climbers a vital blend of challenge and reward in one of New Brunswick’s lesser-frequented climbing gems.