The Power of Oatmeal offers a compact but demanding trad climb carved into the rugged contours of Minkey Wall, part of the Cochrane Lane Cliffs in Welsford, New Brunswick. Though brief at just 25 feet, this single-pitch climb delivers a concentrated dose of challenge that punches well above its size, making it an ideal test piece for climbers looking to sharpen their technique on trad gear and face moves. Starting just left of an accessible gully, the route invites you to step into a short, steep face accented by a single bolt and several horizontal crack features demanding precise placements and confident footwork. The stone here is solid, with subtle friction that rewards clean movement and head-on engagement with the rock. Blackened grooves and faint smears beckon you upward toward a small tree perched in the gully, marking a well-defined finish where the climb releases you back to the forested rim.

Set in a lesser-trafficked corner of the Welsford climbing area, this climb feels like a raw opportunity: it’s direct, no-nonsense, and geared for the hands-on trad enthusiast who prizes quality over quantity. Protection is spaced but sensible, requiring a mix of small to medium cams to secure the horizontal cracks along the face. The lone bolt adds a safety anchor but isn’t a crutch—careful gear placement and smart clipping choices are essential. Expect to trust your gear instincts and engage attentively with the rock’s textures and lines.

Access is straightforward, with a short approach to the base of Minkey Wall through forest trails that carry whispers of pine and earthy duff. The vertical exposure is enough to keep you focused without overwhelming, offering a crisp, isolated feeling as wind moves through the branches above. The climb’s brief length makes it suitable as a warm-up or a focused session to hone on specific climbing techniques. Given its orientation, climbing earlier in the day is preferable, as shade from surrounding trees keeps the rock cool and grippy.

Preparation is key; shoes that balance sensitivity and edging ability will make all the difference, as will a lightweight rack tailored to the modest but technical gear placements this climb demands. Though short, The Power of Oatmeal asks for commitment in every move, encouraging climbers to stay attentive and efficient from start to finish. Water, a helmet, and a partner aware of tight soloing spaces round out the essentials. Locals appreciate this climb’s blend of directness and subtle complexity—a bite-sized but memorable challenge on New Brunswick’s granite faces.

Whether you’re working on your trad game or seeking a brief but worthwhile objective in the Welsford area, The Power of Oatmeal stands as a punchy route offering clear lines, solid protection, and a focused dose of climbing intensity that leaves no moments wasted.