Raw commands attention on the granite faces of The Ghetto, a gritty climbing spot just above the vibrant Grassi Lakes area in Bow Valley, Alberta. This single-pitch sport route earns its 5.12a rating through a demanding sequence of moves that challenge both body and mind. Beginning with four carefully spaced bolts, climbers scale a vertical, 10+ degree overhanging face. The rock here is textured and sharp, gripping your fingertips as you navigate toward a sizeable, jutting pod that demands precise footwork and controlled breathing. Once you reach this natural hold, the route throws a bold challenge: a large, protruding roof that tests core tension and upper body strength. After catching your breath and shaking out your pumped forearms, the final challenge awaits. A committing traverse out from beneath this roof requires steady foot placements and confident clipping past three additional bolts, finishing up at well-protected chains.

Surrounded by the rugged beauty of Bow Valley, Raw offers an intense punch of climbing packed into a concise 60-foot wall. Its location provides a raw (pun intended) experience — granite that is unforgiving yet rewarding, and a sense of isolation balanced with easy access from the Grassi Lakes trail system. The area’s moderate elevation means climbers will appreciate the cooler alpine air, especially during summer’s heat.

Preparation is key here. The climb’s overhanging nature drains energy quickly, so bring plenty of chalk and warm up thoroughly on nearby easier routes. Footwear with a sharp edge and good toe sensitivity will pay off on the small edges and pods that dot the face. Approach time is short—about 20 minutes from the Grassi Lakes parking lot—making Raw a perfect choice for a focused afternoon session or a challenging opener before exploring further into the Bow Valley’s diverse offerings.

The fixed bolts and anchors provide trustworthy protection, but the physical demands of this line reward careful pacing and composure. Expect to push through a steep crux at the roof with no easy rests, then settle into a controlled traverse that requires attention to body positioning.

In all, Raw is a testament to the bold sport climbs peppered throughout Alberta’s Bow Valley—a route that delivers both adrenaline and granite grit, wrapped in clear, rugged surroundings. This climb will challenge your technique and stamina while placing you squarely in one of Canada’s premier climbing zones.