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Worst Case Scenario: A Bold Trad Climb in McIntyre Creek

Whitehorse, Canada
crack climbing
flake
single pitch
fixed bolts
gear placements
northern climbing
cold weather climb
Length: 49 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Worst Case Scenario
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Worst Case Scenario challenges climbers with a powerful crux at its base, followed by a committed crack climb up McIntyre Creek’s rugged walls. Compact yet technical, this 49-foot trad route in Yukon rewards precise gear placements and steady nerve."

Worst Case Scenario: A Bold Trad Climb in McIntyre Creek

Set against the rugged backdrop of McIntyre Creek in the Yukon Territory, Worst Case Scenario invites climbers to test their skills on a compact yet demanding 49-foot trad route. The climb begins immediately with a challenging crux at its base, requiring precise body positioning and confident movement. Expect to follow a flake trending up and right, leading you to a pivotal pull over a lip that demands both strength and technique. Beyond this initial hurdle, the route straightens out, climbing a clean crack system that rewards steady placement and calm headspace.

This single-pitch climb sits within a dramatic northern wilderness where the wind carries the crisp scent of pine and the cold air sharpens your senses. The rock holds character—solid but with enough texture to keep your hands engaged. Protection begins with two fixed bolts anchoring the start, after which gear placements up to 2.5 inches blend into the crack’s rhythm, requiring thoughtful gear selection and secure placements.

Worst Case Scenario shares its anchors with the adjacent Yoga Man route, offering convenience for climbers looking to rappel or set a top-rope. The approach is straightforward for experienced adventurers familiar with the McIntyre region. Climbers should prepare for brisk weather conditions typical of northern Yukon and plan for limited daylight hours during certain seasons.

This climb strikes a balance between raw exposure and technical challenge, making it an appealing test piece for those ready to confront short, punchy pitches. Footwear with sticky rubber and layered clothing against sudden chill form part of a thoughtful gear checklist. Hydration and pre-climb warming are key—this route demands focus from the first move. By combining solid protection with sharp moves in a remote Canadian landscape, Worst Case Scenario offers a crisp, memorable climb for the seasoned trad enthusiast eager to explore northern vertical terrain.

Climber Safety

Be mindful of potential sharp edges around the flake and lip at the start. The northern latitude means weather can turn quickly—prepare for cold snaps and shorter daylight hours. Anchor sharing demands clear communication when rapelling with other parties.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length49 feet

Local Tips

Focus energy on the first moves—crux comes right at the bottom.

Carry a full set of cams, especially sizes up to 2.5 inches.

Wear sticky-soled climbing shoes for secure footing on the flake and crack.

Start early in the day to avoid colder afternoon winds typical of the region.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10d
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.10d, this route packs its hardest moves into the low section, where a tricky flake and a tight lip demand smooth execution and power. Beyond the crux, the grade feels consistent but requires technical crack skills. Compared to other Yukon climbs, it leans toward a stiff challenge for the single-pitch trad routes in the area.

Gear Requirements

Start with two fixed bolts securing the initial moves. Gear placements up to 2.5 inches are essential through the crack system. The anchors are shared with the adjacent Yoga Man route, simplifying rappelling or lowering.

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Tags

crack climbing
flake
single pitch
fixed bolts
gear placements
northern climbing
cold weather climb