In the remote reaches of Yukon Territory’s White Mountain region lies the stark and minimalist ‘Unfinished Project’, a sport climb that’s as much a test of restraint as it is of skill. With just two bolts marking its ascent and ending abruptly on a small ledge, this route challenges climbers not with complexity but with its barebones existence and raw, exposed setting. There are no anchors at the top, leaving a palpable tension in the air that speaks to the climb’s unfinished nature—an invitation for boldness or a cautionary whisper to the cautious.

The climb is situated within ‘3 Bolt Wonderland,’ a local nickname that hints at the sparse yet deliberate bolting ethic of this alpine rock face. The granite here demands respect; its cold, weathered surfaces hold the cool air of the Northern wilderness. The approach takes you across rugged terrain peppered with patches of spruce and birch, the crisp sound of wind threading through branches serving as a constant companion.

Though just a single pitch route, the experience carries weight. The grade of 5.0 X suggests that while the rock might seem straightforward, the absence of protection beyond the two bolts leaves little margin for error. It’s less about physical challenge and more about mental precision and commitment. The climb offers no respite or safety net at the top, requiring the climber to plan a controlled retreat or descent carefully.

Adventurers drawn to this route will find a unique encounter: the wilderness pressing close, a route stripped to its essence, and the chill of the northern air that sharpens every movement. Gear up for uncertain footing and sparse hardware; hydration and layering against sudden shifts in temperature are critical. Timing your climb with daylight hours will enhance safety, as the remote location means descending in the dark could quickly shift the mood from adventure to urgency.

This is not a route for the unprepared or those seeking a leisurely climb. The Unfinished Project demands focus, respect for the environment, and experience in managing bold climbs with minimal protection. For climbers accustomed to dense bolting and defined anchors, this route will test their adaptability and self-reliance in a pristine wilderness setting.

Whether you approach it as a brief reconnaissance or a bold statement of minimalist climbing, the Unfinished Project presents a rare narrative of raw simplicity and northern wilderness exposure. It’s a snapshot of climbing’s essence—a moment suspended on granite, two bolts, and the will to move forward despite the void above.