Situated along the rugged granite walls of the Well of Souls, Bad Dates challenges climbers with a compact but demanding 33-foot pitch that requires both finesse and resolve. From the moment your fingers find purchase on the vertical face, the route tests your precision, inviting a smooth ascent before presenting a delicate traverse into a tight corner—the crux that defines this climb. The corner demands careful footwork and steady balance, a technical puzzle where commitment pays off. While the face to your left tempts with an apparent line, the anchor lies tucked to the right, pushing you back into the corner where focus sharpens. This route’s bolts provide reliable protection, allowing climbers to concentrate fully on their movements without gear anxiety. The granite here is abrasive, providing solid friction and a tactile connection that reinforces each negotiation of holds.

Approaching Bad Dates means stepping into the well-known Well of Souls sector, a magnet for sport climbers seeking quality granite within striking distance of Squamish. The hike-in is short and straightforward, making it accessible for climbers eager to maximize their time on the rock. Early morning or late afternoon sessions bring out the best light and temperature, with the north-facing wall offering relief from the midday sun in summer. Gear-wise, the climb is anchored by five bolts spaced to safeguard the moves, so a standard sport rack suffices—no extras needed beyond your quickdraws and standard climbing kit.

The environment embraces climbers with dense Douglas firs lining the trail and the faint murmur of nearby streams weaving through the forest floor, lending a steady pulse to the setting. As you ascend, the changing texture of the granite, transitioning from face climbing to the crux corner, aligns with the escalating intensity of the route. It’s a quick but gratifying encounter—compact enough to fit into a half-day outing, yet demanding enough to earn breath and respect.

Whether you’re working towards pushing 5.11 grades or chipping away at your sport lead confidence, Bad Dates offers a slice of Squamish’s granite in an approachable package. Sharpen your edging skills, steady your core for the traverse, and prepare to meet the corner’s challenge with poise. Remember to check conditions before heading out, as wet rock can dull the friction that makes this climb so rewarding. By layering the experience with practical planning and an awareness of the route’s subtle demands, climbers can savor every move on Bad Dates without surprises.