HomeClimbingUnprotected Footsies

Unprotected Footsies at Echo Crag

Ontario, Canada
sport climbing
slab
bolt protected
short climb
Ontario rock
forest approach
Length: ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Unprotected Footsies
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Unprotected Footsies offers a brief but compelling sport climb that blends powerful moves with slab finesse. Located in Echo Crag’s calm northern setting, it’s ideal for climbers seeking a focused challenge with secure bolt protection."

Unprotected Footsies at Echo Crag

Echo Crag's Unprotected Footsies offers a short but engaging sport climb that draws you into the quiet rhythms of Ontario’s northern rock. Begin your ascent in a tucked-away gully, where the cool shade and moss-lined cracks greet you like an old companion. The initial stretch demands some solid, committed moves, pushing leftward onto a broad slab that tests your balance and footwork. These few powerful moves feel alive under your fingertips, as if the rock itself challenges your presence and precision. Once you reach the slab, the climb eases into a series of straightforward steps toward the top, giving way to a calm and steady finish that rewards careful pacing. Six bolts provide secure protection along the route, making this climb accessible to those new to sport lead, yet still enjoyable for experienced climbers seeking a focused warm-up or a gentle challenge. The approach is short and direct, threading through forested trails that hum softly with late morning bird calls. Plan your climb on crisp days, when the rock holds firm and grip is assured. Bring climbing shoes with good edge sensitivity to make the most of the slab moves, and don’t forget your quickdraws and helmet. Despite its modest length and grade, Unprotected Footsies offers a moment of connection with Echo Crag’s quiet character, steeped in the steady pulse of northern Ontario’s wilderness. Follow the recommended descent carefully to avoid loose scree, and savor the view as the forest exhales around you.

Climber Safety

Pay close attention during the approach and descent; loose scree can make footing tricky. Also, despite good bolt spacing, always double-check your clipping to prevent any mishaps on the steeper, leftward moves.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Start your climb in the cooler morning hours for better grip on the slab.

Wear shoes with precise edging capability to handle the slab moves.

Scout the gully approach carefully—some loose rock may be present near the base.

Descending requires caution: watch for scree and unstable footing on the trail back.

Route Rating

Difficulty
3rd
Quality
Consensus:While rated an easy 3rd, Unprotected Footsies requires deliberate foot placement and balance, especially on the slab section where the crux subtly increases the technical demand. The grade feels straightforward but rewards thoughtful movement, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to gain confidence or seasoned climbers warming up.

Gear Requirements

Six bolts line the route providing reliable sport protection. Bring a standard sport rack of quickdraws and a helmet for the approach and descent.

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Tags

sport climbing
slab
bolt protected
short climb
Ontario rock
forest approach