"Arc Strike is a sharp, single-pitch trad climb in Squamish that tests finger strength and crack technique along a left-leaning, fingers-to-hands crack. With a powerful start and steady easing higher up, it offers a pure and focused traditional climbing challenge."
Arc Strike is a focused and demanding trad climb tucked into the reputable Highlander area of Squamish, British Columbia. This single-pitch route kicks off with a powerful, bouldery start that immediately tests your finger strength and technique. The crack runs left-leaning and shifts from fingers to hand jams, offering continuous technical moves that challenge climbers to maintain precision and control. As you ascend, the difficulty gradually eases, but the sustained nature of the thin hand jams keeps you engaged all the way to the top.
Located just left of the large corner at Crossroads, the rock here is solid and clean, giving a confident feel underfoot and handholds. The 60-foot pitch is well protected by a single rack fitting fingers through to hand-sized gear, with a helpful extra 1-inch piece recommended to cover subtle variations in crack width. At the summit, you’ll find fixed bolts with rings for a secure anchor, making the descent straightforward.
Approach to Arc Strike is manageable, set within Squamish’s renowned climbing hub known for its accessibility and variety of routes. This climb demands both mental and physical commitment, rewarding climbers with sharp movement and quality crack climbing. Adequate preparation is key: finger strength, crack technique, and efficient gear placements will ensure your ascent is smooth and safe.
Preparing for your day here means considering the variable coastal weather—pack layers and check forecasts, as the granite walls quickly cool when clouds roll in. Start early to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon moisture that can seep into cracks. Bring tape or gloves if your skin is sensitive to thin jams, and keep your rack streamlined but comprehensive. This is a climb that bridges raw power with finesse, perfect for trad climbers looking to sharpen their crack skills in a classic Squamish setting.
Arc Strike exemplifies the balanced challenge that draws climbers westward—rock that dares you to set precise gear, muscles that burn with each jam, and a route that keeps offering just enough rest as you move higher. It’s a concentrated shot of Squamish’s character: straightforward approach, technical climbing, and the satisfying freedom of placing your own protection on one quality pitch.
Watch your gear placements on the thin crack start—while quality rock conditions prevail, poor pro can lead to risky falls. Weather can shift rapidly, bringing moisture to the crack and making jams tricky—plan for safe conditions and inspect anchors before descent.
Start early to avoid damp rock and limited daylight in coastal weather.
Tape your fingers or wear light gloves for the thin crack sections if skin is sensitive.
Focus on precise gear placements; the crack demands attention to detail.
Bring quickdraws for the top bolts for a smooth anchor setup.
Single rack from fingers to hands plus an extra 1-inch piece covers protection needs. Fixed bolts with rings anchor the top.
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