Peripheral Vision offers a straightforward yet rewarding trad climb in the heart of Skaha’s Red Tail Group. This single-pitch, 70-foot route winds up a textured face crack that demands steady footwork and a keen sense of rhythm. The crack itself is broad and inviting, peppered with natural edges and smoothed ledges that provide ample handholds and placements, making it approachable for climbers stepping up from easier grades. However, the final section breaks away from the steady crack system into a short scramble, where protection thins and caution becomes vital. Here, the rock becomes less vertical and more slab-like, requiring solid balance and careful movement to top out smoothly.

Set against the backdrop of Okanagan’s dry climate and clear skies, the approach across Another Buttress introduces you to rough but manageable terrain. The trail gains elevation gradually, winding through sparse shrubs and sun-baked rocks, allowing the nearby lake and valley views to tease you with every step. As you ascend, the warm rock welcomes your hands — sun-threaded and dry — while light breezes temper the afternoon heat.

Protection on Peripheral Vision is generally straightforward, with placements comfortably accommodating cams up to 3 inches. The bolted anchor at the summit provides a secure belay point, highlighting the route’s balance between natural gear and fixed protection. For aspiring trad climbers, this route is an excellent introduction to placing protection in cracks while navigating varied terrain on a moderate grade.

Ideal timing for this climb falls in the spring through early fall, when southern exposure brings warmth to the face but remains bearable before the summer heat peaks. Early morning ascents benefit from shade filtering through higher ridgelines, while afternoon climbs bathe the wall in golden light, enhancing the rock’s reds and grays.

Start by packing light but essential gear: a standard rack through 3-inch cams, a set of nuts, and plenty of quickdraws for clipped placements and anchor setup. Hydration is key; there’s little natural shade on the approach or climb, so bringing at least two liters of water is wise. Footwear that favors precision on edges will serve you best, as the crack requires consistent edging and smearing, especially in the less featured top section.

While the climb carries a modest 5.6 rating, the last scramble section introduces a subtle shift in physical demands. This final move can feel trickier than the numerical grade suggests, especially for those new to exposed scrambles. Climbers familiar with nearby routes will find Peripheral Vision a reassuring, solid outing with enough variation in movement and protection to keep it interesting.

The descent is straightforward: downclimb the scramble carefully, then return via the same access trail, which takes roughly 20 minutes back to the parking zone. The approach and descent are well-worn but uneven, so maintain focus to avoid rolling ankles on loose rocks.

In sum, Peripheral Vision offers a slice of Skaha climbing that blends manageable technical demands with a taste of adventure on warm rock. Its friendly crack and reliable protection make it a dependable choice for trad climbers seeking to expand skills in a stunning, dry landscape.