Sport
Calabogie, Ontario Canada
"Too Many Puppies offers a concise but satisfying slab climb on Ontario’s Mid Cliff, combining juggy start holds with smooth slab movement. Ideal for climbers refining technique in a well-protected sport setting."
Too Many Puppies presents an engaging introduction to slab climbing on Mid Cliff’s Main Wall in Calabogie, Ontario. This sport route greets you with a short, jug-filled face section that rewards climbers with secure handholds before leading into the defining feature: a smooth slab trending right of the arête. The rock here challenges your balance and footwork more than raw strength, encouraging focused movement and precise smearing on well-polished granite. At the base, a distinct stone marked “Too Many Puppies 5.8S” signals the climb’s start, ensuring easy identification even on busy days.
This climb is a single pitch venture of moderate difficulty, rated 5.6—though its grade might feel softer to some, thanks to well-placed glue-in bolts supporting your ascent. Protection is reliable, with fixed anchors easing the belay setup. Though technically straightforward, the route’s slab section demands steady feet and calm composure as it showcases the subtle art of slab climbing in a peaceful forested crag setting.
Calabogie's Mid Cliff area immerses paddlers and climbers alike in classic Canadian granite, surrounded by pine and hardwoods that soften the soundscape and filter dappled sunlight onto the rock. The approach is short and uncomplicated, making Too Many Puppies accessible for climbers seeking a rewarding, low-commitment challenge to sharpen slab technique or warm up their muscles.
Aspiring climbers will appreciate the route’s forgiving nature and solid protection, which offers an inviting platform for mastering balance and body positioning. Despite its brevity, the climb presents a steady rhythm of movement that builds confidence, setting the stage for more demanding lines scattered nearby on Main Cliff.
Safety-wise, the coating of polished granite can become slick in wet conditions, so timing your climb for dry weather is key. Footwear with sharp edges and sticky rubber will enhance grip, while patience pacing your moves will prevent any missteps. The fixed anchors provide straightforward rappelling options, but lowering off is equally hassle-free.
For anyone exploring the cliffs around Calabogie, Too Many Puppies blends approachable sport climbing with a touch of finesse, lending itself to both beginner-friendly days and relaxed afternoons soaking in the natural beauty of Ontario’s rockscapes. Whether you’re looking to refine slab skills or savor uncomplicated climbing in a well-maintained area, this route delivers with dependable gear and a textured granite surface that quietly tests your technique.
The slab surface becomes dangerously slippery when damp or after rain. Climbing only in dry weather and using sticky-soled shoes ensures a safer ascent. Fixed anchors are solid but always double-check gear before lowering.
Ensure climbs occur only in dry conditions to avoid slick slab sections.
Wear shoes with aggressive edging for optimal friction on polished granite.
Look for the marked stone at the base to find the start easily.
Lowering from fixed anchors is simple; no complex rappel setup required.
Protected by glue-in bolts and fixed anchors, making gear placement straightforward and reliable throughout the single pitch. No trad gear needed.
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