Venom rises boldly above the rugged cliffs of Turtle Mountain, offering a single, unforgettable pitch that tests both strength and finesse. Situated on the exposed arete at the back of Lake Louise within Banff National Park, this route demands a climber’s focus as the holds grow scarce and the walls stretch outward. Begin your climb by following one of the routes below the arete–Mardi Gras offers an especially engaging start, though expect to manage some careful back cleaning to keep the gear in shape. The crux unfolds as you extend beyond the midway belay and push upward along the arete’s challenging prow. Long reaches between horizontal edges build a sustained pump that keeps your forearms burning and your mind sharp. The exposed nature of the climb means each move feels purposeful, the rock alive beneath your fingertips, sometimes slick with mountain air and moss patches from seasonal rains. At roughly 110 feet, the climb fits neatly into a long, fulfilling single-pitch adventure that climbers with solid 5.11+ skills will savor.

The logistics behind the climb are straightforward but require attention. A 60-meter rope is a must, both to make full use of the anchors and to lower cleanly. Expect to bring plenty of extendable draws to reduce rope drag and keep your protection solid along the arete’s protruding features. This part of the mountain stands quiet save for the occasional wind, and the vast views stretch out neatly from the backside of Lake Louise, affording glimpses of alpine forests and distant peaks as you climb. The approach is manageable and invites a morning start to take advantage of steady conditions before afternoon winds pick up. Footwear with good edging capabilities is critical here given the technical nature of the moves and the rock’s occasional slickness.

Venom shines as a challenging highlight among Lake Louise’s sport routes. It strikes a balance between pumpy athleticism and tactical gear management, pulling climbers into the mountain’s raw appeal while testing endurance and mental grit. Whether you return for a focused day of sport climbing or slot it into a broader alpine weekend, this line on Turtle Mountain embodies the wild, elevated spirit Banff is known for. Prepare well, climb smart, and expect a mix of adrenaline and accomplishment where every hold matters, and every move reveals more of the mountain’s stern beauty.