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 and 5.11 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 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 remember that after the 2007 season, the access situation will change completely and the old parking lot will no longer be in use.
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