From Gripped Magazine · Brandon Pullan · · 50s
New X-Rated Big Wall Route Climbed on Baffin Island
Leo Houlding and Eric Boomer complete first ascent of Chossrider on Baffin Island.
In brief
Leo Houlding and Eric Boomer complete first ascent of Chossrider on Baffin Island. Leo Houlding and Eric Boomer successfully climbed Chossrider, a 21-pitch 750-metre route graded 5.10+ X M5R A3+ on Baffin Island in May 2026. Originally reported by Gripped Magazine.
First Ascent Attempt
Leo Houlding led a nine-person expedition into Baffin Island's remote Arctic wilderness in May 2026 to attempt the first climb of The Beak.
Challenging Conditions
The expedition faced winds up to 60 miles per hour and temperatures as low as −27°C, with conditions later rising above freezing.
Setback and Completion
Team member Wilson Cutbirth fell 2,000 feet after losing control while skiing, but Houlding and Eric Boomer completed the first ascent of Chossrider in 10 days.
In short
Leo Houlding and Eric Boomer successfully climbed Chossrider, a 21-pitch 750-metre route graded 5.10+ X M5R A3+ on Baffin Island in May 2026.
