"Perpendiculous delivers a bold trad climb at Skaha with steep corners and thin cracks guarded by a distinctive big tree. Challenging yet accessible, this two-pitch route tests your skills with sustained moves and requires careful gear placement on granite that shines under the B.C. sun."
Perpendiculous stands as a striking trad climb at Skaha, challenging climbers with its steep lines and bold moves around a notable big tree landmark. The route kicks off right beside this gnarled arboreal guardian, guiding you through a gritty corner and bulging over a ledge before entering the steep, sustained wall that defines the first pitch. This segment demands precise footwork and confident hand jams, rated at a solid 5.10a over approximately 30 meters. The air thickens with tension as you reach the hanging belay, perched just beyond the reach of the big tree’s shadow, offering a brief moment to steady your breath and gauge the road ahead.
The second pitch veers right, tracking a thin crack that slices through the rock face with deliberate sharpness. This upward dance stretches about 25 meters at a challenging 5.10b/c grade, requiring small-to-medium cam placements to protect each technical move. The rock here tests finger strength and composure, especially since the summit lacks fixed anchors, demanding a cautious approach to building your own secure top anchor.
Skaha’s arid climate wraps around this corridor of rock, and the climb’s position offers a mix of sun exposure, warming the granite but also inviting swift wind shifts that keep the atmosphere dynamic. The surrounding valley is alive with the hum of nature, where the breeze carries the scent of dry sage and evergreen, while distant calls of birds punctuate the stillness between moves. The climb feels alive — the tree beside you seems to stand watch, daring each climber to step into its domain, while the rock quietly demands respect and focus.
Gear-wise, the route favors a rack heavy on small to medium cams and wires, particularly essential for protecting the upper crack. Fixed anchors are absent, so climbers must arrive prepared to build solid belays and anchors on their own. The descent requires care; climbers should note the lack of fixed ropes and prepare for a careful walk off or downclimb.
Perpendiculous strikes a balance between technical challenge and natural beauty, set in one of British Columbia’s premier climbing areas. The approach is straightforward from the nearby fortress area, allowing climbers to access the base within a manageable hike. Whether aiming to sharpen trad skills or savor a high-quality multipitch experience, this route delivers with sustained climbing that tests control and mental grit.
The climbing community rates this route around 3 stars for its engaging moves, steady protection opportunities, and the unique atmosphere delivered by the iconic big tree. It’s a compelling choice for those ready to push the limits on splitter cracks while soaking in the raw, sunlit terrain of Skaha’s granite.
No fixed anchors top out—making your own top belay and anchor placements essential for safety. The approach terrain is moderate but can become slippery when wet; plan accordingly. The big tree near the start does not pose hazard but watch for loose debris around its base.
Start your climb early to avoid direct afternoon sun heating the granite.
Double-check your anchors at the top—none are fixed or bolted.
Wear shoes with good edging ability for the sustained face moves.
Stay hydrated; the approach and climb develop quickly in the dry heat.
Bring a set of small to medium Cams and wires, especially for the thin crack on the second pitch. No fixed anchors top out, so come prepared to build solid gear anchors.
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