Access for 2008 and beyond has been the focus of a great deal of activity by a lot of people who deserve our thanks. The land purchase is pretty much done, but access and parking at the new site isn't going to be ready for 2008 so the use of Braeside for 2008 is big relief.
There's some steep climbing to be had in Skaha! P...
Description
Skaha is the rock climbing destination most people think of when they think about the Okanagan area of BC. As one of the only dry deserts in Canada, a visit here could change your image of the Great White North. The area is on the edge of the town of Penticton,
The climbing is extensive with over 50 crags. The routes are mainly sport, but there are some excellent trad lines as well. The grades range from 5.0 to 5.13, with large numbers of 5.10, 5.11 and 5.12 routes to choose from. You'll find a reasonable selection at 5.9 and below as well. The rock is Gneiss and crisp edges are the bread-and-butter holds. Vertical is the predominant angle but you'll find it tipping in either direction to suit your taste.
The season runs from March to October or November. As with most places it's possible to get lucky at other times, but it's usually cold and snowy in the winter.
Getting There
The four to five hour drive from Vancouver is probably how most non-locals arrive, but it's possible to drive in from the east or from the south, and possible to fly into the Okanagan area.
Camping and reasonable motels are abundant, but can still be very busy in the summer as this is not just a rock climbing destination but a major tourism, summer holiday, boating and wine making/drinking area. Look here for some accommodation ideas: http://www.penticton.ca/tourism/default.asp
Buy Howie Richardson's guidebook (http://www.elaho.ca) for complete details and directions, but note that the parking situation changed completely since publication of the guide. Directions to the parking can be found here: http://www.skaha.org. There is also a downloadable supplement to the guidebook with new routes and updated information on previously published routes.
One of the all-time great climbs at Skaha. A must-do.The sweeping clean expanse of the great white wall is one of the largest faces in Skaha. This route follows a seam, crack, and series of features straight up through the gently overhanging wall, to a small alcove beneath a roof. Pull the roof, and you've only got to hang on for a few more meters to the chains.This route has been lead on gear, which would make it a much more serious endeavor. Cl...[more]Browse More Classics in International
How long is the approach? Want to go with kids this summer.
By Peter Spindloe Administrator From: North Vancouver, BC May 28, 2009
The approach from the new parking lot is now much more kid friendly than the old parking lot as it's more level. It probably takes about fifteen minutes to get to the Day Care crag. There are still some uphill sections, but nothing like the old staircase.
Thanks Peter....that helps. What's the best guide book to buy for the area?
By Peter Spindloe Administrator From: North Vancouver, BC Jun 3, 2009
This book is still the only one, I believe. When combined with the supplement and link to parking info, both listed above, you have everything you need.
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