Piled Higher and Steeper offers a raw, intimate foray into the art of off-width climbing that commands both mental grit and physical resolve. This single-pitch trad route begins tucked in the back of a tight squeeze chimney, immediately immersing you in the true experience of off-width climbing—where every inch demands commitment. You’ll grunt and grind your way up a generous fist crack that wrestles with several bulging cruxes, each challenging your ability to slot hands, feet, and body into the rock’s relentless embrace. As you push upward, the crack eases into a more open chimney near the top, inviting a brief moment of breathing room and technical relief after the sustained battle below.

For those less inclined to embrace the OW grind, the alternative is to skirt the crack entirely, leaning on crimps amid the cruxes—though this method tests finger strength and precision differently. Regardless of your chosen approach, the rock here presents a gritty, textured surface that holds the chalk marks of climbers who came before, guiding your movements and reminding you of the route’s hard-earned reputation.

Protection demands respect and specific gear. Only larger cams between 3 and 5 inches fit the crack’s expansive width; a rack of BD #4 cams (3 to 5 inch range) and a couple of #5s provide the necessary coverage. The rock’s features offer secure placements but challenging ones—stay precise, as these placements are your lifeline on the physically taxing sections.

Top-out anchors have been updated, positioned just right at the top, offering solid security when you reach the summit of the line. A 60-meter rope will just barely get you down on rappel, but a 70-meter is ideal—especially if you plan to top-rope the climb.

This route sits within Doctors' Wall, part of the larger Doctors' Group at Skaha, British Columbia. The area is renowned for both its volcanic rock and its dry, sunny climate, providing excellent conditions most of the climbing season. The wall faces mostly south, catching the morning sun and shading later in the afternoon, which means timing your climb early in the day can help you avoid overheating during the strenuous off-width moves.

To get here, approach via well-worn trails that wind through scrub and low forest cover, covering roughly 15 minutes of descending from the main parking areas. Keep your gear packed carefully, as the approach is straightforward but involves some uneven terrain and loose rock bands near the base.

Piled Higher and Steeper stands as a powerful testament to off-width climbing’s intensity—a compelling challenge for those ready to test the edges of their technique and endurance in a spectacular natural setting. Prepare your hands and your mindset, because this climb demands full attention and rewards with an exhilarating sense of accomplishment.