"Veggie Tales is a compelling three-pitch trad climb in Eldred Valley offering a blend of technical crack work and solid protection. From slippery quartz-lined corners to splitter finger cracks, this route tests skills while treating climbers to rugged wilderness and thoughtful gear placements."
Veggie Tales offers a striking three-pitch trad climb carved into the rugged granite of Eldred Valley, just outside Powell River, British Columbia. This route pulls you into a varied climbing experience that tests both technique and mental focus, rewarding every move with precise protection and a genuine sense of adventure. From the first pitch’s slick left-leaning corner edged by unmistakable quartz dykes, your hands and feet engage deeply with the rock—slick yet secure—with thoughtful crack climbing demanding careful jams and balance. The corner’s shape and texture, once hidden beneath a dense, 15-meter garden of earth and roots, give the climb its name and add a little local lore to your ascent.
Pitch two shifts gears into smoother finger cracks that recall the quality and style found in famous Squamish climbs. Here, the rock feels tighter and more polished, inviting finesse over brute force. The climb progresses over a tiny roof where delicate moves lead left before following flared cracks up to a comfortable ledge where belayers can reset and prepare for the final section.
The third pitch begins with a controlled C0 pendulum off the belay tree stump, swinging you into the heart of the most technical part of the climb—a splitter finger crack interrupted by a single bulge that demands precise body positioning and clean lock-offs. Beyond the crux, the path eases into easier finger locks and features, allowing climbers to savor the granite’s texture as it relaxes into the finale.
Throughout, Veggie Tales offers top-notch protection with placements ranging from tiny micro cams to standard sized pieces, making it rare for a 5.10+ route to feel so manageable gear-wise. A single 70m rope covers all three pitches efficiently. Descent is straightforward with rappels from fixed two-bolt anchors at each belay.
Located at 50.1606 latitude and -124.2293 longitude in the wilds of British Columbia’s Eldred Valley, this climb rewards those willing to go a bit further from the beaten path. Expect forested approaches with soft needle beds underfoot and occasional cool ocean breezes sneaking through damp mossy walls. It's a climb that blends adventure with solid, protective climbing and scenic solitude.
Ideal timing for Veggie Tales is spring through fall when the rock dries quickly, and moderate temperatures lower the risk of slippery holds. The face receives balanced sun and shade throughout the day, allowing climbers to avoid the brunt of afternoon heat or morning chill.
Bring sturdy trad gear emphasizing smaller cams (.3" to 3") and a few wires. Climbers should prepare for some technical face climbing mixed with sustained crack work. Approaches require moderate bushwhacking and a reliable map or GPS, as trail markers are sparse. Patience on access pays off with solitude and a very memorable climbing experience.
Watch for slick patches on the left-leaning corner of pitch one, especially if damp. Protection is reliable but placements are delicate; ensure cams are seated well. The descent rappel requires a 70-meter rope and careful attention to avoid rope drag or loose debris on the anchors.
Approach involves moderate bushwhacking; bring GPS or detailed maps.
The rock dries fastest late morning to early afternoon—plan your climb accordingly.
Anchors have two bolts, but bring some webbing and extra hardware for safety.
Spring through fall offers the most reliable climbing conditions with minimal moss and moisture.
Gear up with cams between .3 inches and 3 inches, small wires, and a few S to 4-inch pieces to navigate the crack systems and protect cruxes. A single 70-meter rope covers all pitches comfortably.
Upload your photos of Veggie Tales and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.