The term Wavelength is well known in local circles but what does it actually refer to? Is it the established and classic 7b+ boulder problem? Is it the iconic boulder perched midway up the hillsidein the Llanberis Pass? Is it indeed the entire circuit stemming from the valley floor right the way up to the imposing Craig y Rhaedr? In truth, it is all of this and more.
It is not clear what is more prominent at the Wavelength boulders: the history or the quality of the climbing; both are here in abundance. While the nearby Cromlech roadside boulders captivate the masses - with the substantially easier walk in - the Wavelength debatably has the better climbing. From the highball, vertical, technical masterpieces of the Utopia bloc, past some of the underrated and fierce testpieces on the Pieshop bloc, the uber-classic Wavelength boulder itself with the outstanding King of Drunks (possibly the best 7a in the UK) and upwards past the Lotus bloc and beyond, this circuit rivals anywhere in the UK and possibly beyond; matching many famous Alpine venues for both aspect and quality of climbing.
The Wavelength circuit rightly sits in the upper echelons of North Wales bouldering venues. However, as is customary for Welsh climbing venues, don't expect her to give you anything for free. The walk in does more than raise your pulse, often leaving budding boulderers with burning thighs once arriving at their chosen destination. Likewise, the weather is typical of Welsh mountain venues and anyone venturing into this territory would be well advised to keep a beady eye down the valley for incoming clouds. This is indeed a serious place to be when the weather turns and it can turn quick.
However, on those days when things go well, there are surely few venues that would come close to the feeling of climbing on any of the boulders on the Wavelength circuit. It really is a must visit for any UK boulderer.
