East Coaster and West Coaster Solo New Van Island Alpine

East coast climber Max Fisher and west coast climber Ryan Van Horne teamed up for a solo ascent of a new route on King’s Peak. Their new alpine climb goes up the Queen’s Face for nearly 275 metres at 5.7. Fisher is one of Canada’s leading Atlantic alpine climbers, likewise for Van Horne on the Pacific.

The Queen’s Face is the series of buttresses above the King’s North Glacier to the west. Some sections rise to 300 metres and it has a collection of alpine lines with easy walk-off. It is a great area for those looking to start alpine climbing. Paupers Buttress is a popular 5.7 and Northern Lights is a good for those looking for 5.10 alpine climb.

King’s Peak is the ninth highest mountain on Vancouver Island at 2,065 metres. It overlooks the Elk River valley and Highway 28 that connects Campbell River and Gold River. With mellow access and good alpine terrain, King’s Peak is one of Vancouver Island’s top alpine climbing peaks. The routes are longer and more difficult than the obvious starting area of Mount Arrowsmith.