"Then There Was 3 offers a punchy single-pitch test in the heart of Croissant Wall, blending sustained bucket holds with a sharp crimp crux and a rewarding roof pull. A prime sport route for climbers honing their 5.10c skills in scenic Okanagan."
Then There Was 3 stands as a compact but potent test of your sport climbing skills on Croissant Wall, a striking formation in the Cedar Park area of Okanagan, British Columbia. This 75-foot pitch demands steady endurance and sharp technique, set against a backdrop of rugged rock and vast inland mountain vistas that sweep across the valley below. As you begin, your hands find deep, positive buckets that invite confident movement, allowing you to settle into a rhythm. But the route spices up mid-way when the hold quality shifts—between the 4th and 5th bolts you’ll encounter a brief challenge where buckets vanish, replaced by a crucial crimp that forces precision and grip strength. Overcoming this crimp is the key to reaching a sizeable roof section, where massive, juggy holds offer a satisfying sense of triumph as you pull through.
Protection on Then There Was 3 is straightforward but uncompromising—8 fixed bolts along the way guide your ascent with security, ending at a two-bolt anchor perched for comfortable belaying. The rock here is solid, with minimal loose sections, making your clip-ins confident and reassuring. This route’s character lies in its balance: a welcoming start that builds into a core crux demanding careful hand placement and mental focus. It’s a prime choice for climbers stepping up into the 5.10 range who want a single-pitch challenge with multiple styles of grip and body positioning.
Approach to Croissant Wall unfolds through forest tracks typical of Cedar Park’s mixed woodland, with gentle elevation gain and well-marked trails that keep the walk-in relaxed—around 20 minutes from the nearest parking lot. The wall faces generally west, catching afternoon sun without excessive heat, making spring and fall the ideal seasons to climb here. Early mornings offer cool shadows while midday shines bright over the ridge.
In preparing for the ascent, climbers benefit from finger-strength training focused on crimps, alongside confidence on bucket holds and roof pulls. Bring moderate slack on your draws to ease clipping on the roof moves and double-check your anchor setup as no quickdraws are provided there. Hydration is key; the dry Okanagan climate can sneak up on you, so a liter of water and light snacks will keep energy levels high and hands steady.
From a safety perspective, the route offers reliable protection but requires attention during the trickier mid-route shift in hold type. Don’t rush this section; deliberate moves prevent slips on the small crimp. Once at the top, descend by a straightforward rappel or carefully downclimb the adjacent easier terrain if equipped and confident. Weather can turn quickly in the interior, so keep an eye on forecasts to avoid afternoon thunderstorms or sudden temperature drops.
Then There Was 3 embodies the spirit of straightforward sport climbing with a touch of technical challenge, perfectly placed within the scenic corridors of the Okanagan. Balanced and engaging, it invites both eager newcomers and experienced climbers looking to sharpen their technique on demanding single-pitch rock. Whether you’re chasing a crisp confidence builder or a scenic climb with a practical approach, this route offers both thrill and tangible skills development under the wide British Columbia sky.
While the bolting is solid, the switch from positive buckets to smaller crimps demands controlled, deliberate movements—rushing here risks falls. The rock is generally stable, but be cautious on the roof to avoid dangling falls. Check weather forecasts before heading out, as sudden changes can impact descent safety.
Approach via the well-marked forest trails from the nearest parking area—expect about 20 minutes hiking.
Spring and fall offer the best temperatures with comfortable shade in the afternoon.
Focus finger training on crimp strength to handle the mid-route moves smoothly.
Carry at least one liter of water; the dry interior climate affects grip and endurance.
The climb is equipped with 8 bolts leading to a 2-bolt anchor that requires your own biners. Bring quickdraws and a standard sport rack. Expect solid clips but prepare for careful positioning on the roof section.
Upload your photos of Then There Was 3 and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.