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Animal Burger: A Dynamic 50-Foot Sport Climb in Bow Valley

Canmore, Canada
sport climb
dynamic moves
balance-focused
granite
single pitch
5.11+
Length: 50 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Animal Burger
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Animal Burger offers a compact, intense climb where dynamic moves give way to tricky balance sequences. Set on Little Wall, this 50-foot bolted sport route challenges climbers to adapt swiftly in the heart of Bow Valley's rugged rock."

Animal Burger: A Dynamic 50-Foot Sport Climb in Bow Valley

Animal Burger stands out on Little Wall in Bow Valley as a challenging yet inviting sport climb. Stretching 50 feet with a single pitch, this route demands a blend of dynamic power and precise balance, offering climbers a concentrated burst of technical movement. The first half crackles with lively, athletic moves that push your coordination and strength, making each reach feel purposeful. As you transition to the upper section, the pendulum of difficulty swings toward finesse, requiring careful footwork and a calm center of gravity to navigate the trickier, more delicate sequences.

Located within the vast grandeur of Echo Canyon, this route benefits from the rugged Canadian Rockies backdrop. The raw granite face presents clean lines secured by five well-spaced bolts, ensuring solid protection as you ascend. The rock’s texture invites confident smears and edges, while the wall’s orientation offers a balanced exposure to sun and shade, making it comfortable to climb through much of the climbing season.

Approaching Animal Burger involves a manageable hike from Bow Valley’s core parking, threading your way through light forest cover that gradually reveals the impressive coliseum of granite cliffs known locally as the Coliseum. This access rewards climbers with scenic views as they gear up beneath Little Wall’s steeper faces. Peak conditions are typically found in late spring through early fall, when the weather stabilizes and the rock’s friction maximizes.

For your ascent, five bolts lead to a fixed anchor, promoting a confident climb without the distractions of complex gear placements. Despite this bolted security, the route’s 5.11+ rating is no casual undertaking—its crux edges on sustained difficulty, requiring solid climbing technique paired with mental focus. Many climbers note the route’s split personality: an energetic start followed by a balance-driven finish that separates those prepared to adapt mid-climb from those caught off guard.

Prepare with well-fitting climbing shoes that can handle both dynamic launches and delicate edging. Hydrate before you start, as focused effort on a single pitch can quickly sap energy, especially at altitude. Timing your climb for cooler parts of the day can also improve grip and comfort.

Animal Burger offers a rewarding experience for intermediate to advanced climbers looking to hone their power-to-control transition skills within a stunning mountain setting. Your journey here will sharpen your abilities while framing them against the stark beauty of the Bow Valley—rock, sky, and quiet challenge in equal measure.

Climber Safety

Though bolted securely, the exposed upper moves require careful foot placement to avoid slipping on smoother granite surfaces. Additionally, the approach involves some uneven terrain, so watch your footing before and after the climb.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length50 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon sun on the wall.

Wear shoes with a stiff sole for better edging on granite edges.

Bring plenty of water; the climb’s sustained nature can drain you quickly.

Check weather forecasts before heading out; afternoon storms can roll in fast.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.11+
Quality
Consensus:At 5.11+, Animal Burger is a route that feels true to grade with a crux that demands both power and poise. The initial dynamic sequences warm you up for a more technical finish, making it a satisfying challenge for sport climbers comfortable at this level. It matches well with other Bow Valley sport routes of similar grade but stands out due to its split movement style.

Gear Requirements

Five bolts lead the route to a fixed anchor, allowing climbers to focus on movement without worrying about gear placements. A standard sport rack with quickdraws is all you need.

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Tags

sport climb
dynamic moves
balance-focused
granite
single pitch
5.11+