"4 - 2nd Ave is an ideal first trad lead in Squamish’s Smoke Bluffs, easing climbers into gear placements on solid granite. A single-pitch 5.6 route, it pairs simple technique with secure protection, perfect for beginners stepping onto the trad scene."
At the heart of Squamish’s legendary Smoke Bluffs lies 4 - 2nd Ave, a modest but rewarding trad climb that gently opens the door to trad leading. This route welcomes beginners with a straightforward 5.6 rating and a single pitch, making it an inviting first taste of gear placement and crack climbing. Rising from the base, you’ll feel the rough granite pressing beneath your fingertips and the fresh Pacific Northwest air hum quietly around towering trees that guard the approach path. The route’s solid rock quality and clear protection opportunities provide comfort in every move, while the nearby forest whispers with the light shuffle of local wildlife.
Though it offers a taste of Squamish’s climbing character, 4 - 2nd Ave stands out as a prime teaching climb designed to build confidence. Its well-protected crack lines and a convenient tree at the anchor make for secure gear options that suit beginners testing rack setups or refining their slinging techniques. The climb isn’t long, but it captures the technical essentials of crack climbing: foot jams, hand jams, and smooth transitions through varying crack widths. Approach the climb early in the day to enjoy the soft morning light filtering through the canopy and breathe in the cool mountain air before the sun moves higher and densifies the forest atmosphere.
For those planning their adventure, expect a short walk-in along well-marked trails that thread through open forest patches, with the climb itself perched on clean, grab-ready rock overlooking the sprawling valley below. While the climb’s modest rating keeps things accessible, the protective nature of the line invites you to develop vital trad skills in a stable and scenic environment. Whether you’re introducing a new climber or sorting through your own gear for the first lead, 4 - 2nd Ave offers a chance to move upward with purpose and quiet satisfaction. Dress in layers, pack a generous rack to cover a wide range of placements, and prepare for a climb that balances challenge with ease on Squamish’s welcoming granite.
Surrounding Squamish’s Smoke Bluffs, the area hums with the energy of climbers pushing limits on steep faces, but this route serves as a calm harbor—a place to hone technique before diving into more demanding lines. Its proximity to the town ensures quick access and solid amenities after your climb, making it a practical and enjoyable stop in any Squamish climbing itinerary.
Though the rock is generally sound, beginners should double-check all gear placements and the tree sling anchor at the top. Wet or mossy sections near the approach can be slippery, so watch your footing.
Start early to avoid afternoon sun and heat on the route.
Wear climbing shoes with good edging capability to manage varied crack widths.
Pack extra slings and a moderate rack of cams from small to mid-sized.
Approach on clearly marked trails; take care crossing damp forest floors.
Bring a broad selection of trad gear to cover a range of crack sizes, including cams and nuts. There’s a convenient tree anchor at the top, so slinging is straightforward. The rock is solid, but having supplemental protection builds confidence on this beginner-friendly lead.
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