Voldy Having A Coldy stands out as a single-pitch trad climb that commands both focus and finesse amid the rugged backdrop of British Columbia’s Kootenays West region. From your starting point, you’re immediately drawn into a compelling vertical crack line that beckons with a mix of technical moves and solid protection opportunities. The climb offers an uncommon feature—a roof that tests your ability to read the rock and position your body precisely, with a bolted anchor waiting at the top to secure your belay.

Approaching the route, you have the unique option to belay from a boat or dinghy in the water below or build your anchor on expansive ledges that provide a comfortable stance. The crack itself moves steadily upward, demanding clean technique and careful gear placements. The heart of the route arrives as you near the roof, where a well-placed #0.5 cam combined with a shallow #1 offers reliable security before tackling the committing move to pull over the roof’s lip.

Set in a remote corner of the Kootenays, this climb blends the thrill of traditional protection with a wild setting that feels far removed from crowded crags. The surrounding environment pulls you into the cool, fresh air of British Columbia’s mountainous terrain, while the river nearby softly hums, challenging you to rise above its currents with deliberate steadiness.

For climbers who crave pure trad movement, Voldy Having A Coldy offers a compact but intense experience. It demands solid gear judgment, precise footwork, and mental readiness for the key crux. Make no mistake, the 5.11+ rating reflects the route’s stiffness, where a careful sequence is necessary to overcome the roof’s bulge. Yet the satisfaction of standing on the summit ledge, overlooking this wild stretch of the Kootenays, rewards that effort fully.

Preparation is key: a rack that includes cams sized around #0.5, #1, and #4 will cover the protection needs, while a bolted anchor ensures a safe and straightforward top belay. Bringing along shoes with sticky rubber and practicing crack climbing techniques will smooth the ascent. Timing your climb for the late spring to early fall months maximizes dry rock conditions and pleasant weather.

This route quietly challenges those who pass by, offering an unpolished gem for the adventurous soul looking to sharpen their trad skills in a setting that is raw and invigorating. Whether you arrive by water or land, Voldy Having A Coldy demands respect, focus, and trust between climber and rock—a visceral test of your ability to move with intention in an untamed slice of the West Kootenays.