Reunion: The Sharp Edge of Comox Lake’s Main Wall

Comox, Canada
finger crack
steep slate
technical face
single pitch
sport climbing
northwest exposure
Length: ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Reunion
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Reunion challenges climbers with a sharp line up a steep fin on Comox Lake’s Main Wall. This single-pitch sport climb offers a demanding finger crack and technical face moves, making it a must-try for those honing precise technique in a quiet forested setting."

Reunion: The Sharp Edge of Comox Lake’s Main Wall

Rising boldly from Comox Lake’s Main Wall on Vancouver Island, Reunion is a vibrant encounter with steep rock and precise technique. This one-pitch sport climb locks you into a tight dance along a fin, where every move demands focus and control. The approach trails through dense Douglas fir and cedar, the forest breathing quiet encouragement as you near the base. Upon reaching the route, the rock greets you with clean, steep slate marked by a narrow finger crack that beckons for confident laybacking and measured reaches.

The climbing begins with a direct line up the fin, each move pushing your balance and finger strength. The finger crack, tucked along the face, rewards finesse and body tension, leading to a subtle hold that's easy to miss if your eyes wander. From there, the route shifts into a technical, face-climbing section where precise footwork and careful sequencing become critical. The series of five well-placed bolts guide your ascent without obscuring the natural line and minimalistic challenge.

Reunion offers a compact but demanding experience at 5.11+, ideal for climbers seeking a sharp test of finger crack skills and face climbing on volcanic rock. The climb’s single pitch packs a punch, pushing a strong sequence of moves into a concentrated burst of effort that feels both raw and deliberate. The quality of the granite-like slate, combined with the forested lake backdrop, crafts an atmosphere that balances focused intensity with peaceful surroundings.

Prepare to engage fully: bring shoes that offer precision on thin edges, taping for finger protection, and a quickdraw rack suited to sport climbing. Approach timing is best in mid to late morning when the wall emerges from shade, warming but rarely overheated thanks to its northwestern exposure. Local climbers recommend early spring to early fall to avoid moss buildup and wet conditions, as rain can soften the holds and dull the slickness.

After topping out, descend carefully using a single 60-meter rappel back to the base, mindful of loose flakes near the anchor. The area’s wilderness feel remains strong despite easy access, so packing out your gear and respecting the surrounding ecosystem is essential. Reunion is a concentrated gem for those who appreciate technical cracks and steep faces, a climb that pushes intensity into a brief but memorable encounter with Comox Lake’s rugged cliffs.

Climber Safety

Be cautious near the anchors; loose flakes have been reported. The rock is generally solid, but wet conditions can create slippery patches especially around mossy sections. A reliable rappel setup is essential for a safe descent.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Approach early to catch the morning sun warming the wall without overheating.

Use precision climbing shoes suitable for thin finger crack holds.

Taping fingers can reduce skin wear on the steep finger crack.

Avoid climbing after rain to prevent slippery moss and wet rock.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.11+
Quality
Consensus:Rated a demanding 5.11+, Reunion features a crux that tightens the effort around a steep finger crack followed by delicate face moves, pushing both finger strength and precision. Locally, it sits well among other sharp sport climbs on Vancouver Island, feeling honest without excessively stiff grading.

Gear Requirements

Sport climb protected by five bolts spaced to safeguard the crux sequence; bring a standard sport rack with quickdraws and consider taping fingers for the layback crack.

Share Your Ascent

Upload your photos of Reunion and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.

Tags

finger crack
steep slate
technical face
single pitch
sport climbing
northwest exposure