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Blackberry Corner: A Relaxed Trad Climb Amid Harrison Bluffs

Fraser Valley, Canada
fist crack
slab climbing
single pitch
3-bolts
low 5th
moderate exposure
Length: 70 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Blackberry Corner
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Blackberry Corner offers a smooth introduction to trad climbing with a friendly 5.6 rating, combining slabby footwork with protective cracks on a single 70-foot pitch. Set against the raw backdrop of Harrison Bluffs, it’s a solid choice for climbers seeking a practical, satisfying day out."

Blackberry Corner: A Relaxed Trad Climb Amid Harrison Bluffs

Blackberry Corner presents an inviting first pitch with well-balanced challenges and a strong connection to the rugged beauty of Harrison Bluffs. Located on the right flank of Bigfoot’s upper arete, this 70-foot dihedral offers a blend of slabby holds and a protected crack system that makes for approachable, yet engaging climbing. The route’s lower section is defined by a tight flare devoid of cracks, but the featured slab on the left wall allows climbers to find solid footwork, while the vertical right wall acts almost like a pillar to lean on for additional balance. Three well-placed bolts guide ascenders through this initial challenge, providing confidence before the route opens into a fist crack running up the left side, easing into low-fifth class terrain. This pocket of British Columbia’s Fraser Valley feels alive beneath the hands, with the textured rock surfaces inviting tactile communication and the surrounding bluffs framing views that fuel motivation without distraction.

Approach to Blackberry Corner leans on practicality: the path through Harrison Bluffs is straightforward, moving through fir and cedar trees before reaching the base of this rewarding climb. The climb’s moderate length means it fits perfectly into a half-day adventure, especially for those seeking a single-pitch experience grounded in solid protections and manageable technical demands. With 3 bolts peppered along the way, supplemented by traditional gear placements from 2- to 3-inches, the protection offers a reassuring mix of fixed and removable security, demanding keen gear judgment but never sliding into overprotection.

Timing your climb for early morning or late afternoon improves comfort and grip. The climbing surface benefits from gentle shade during these cooler hours, especially as the sun sweeps across the Fraser Valley. Spring through fall offers the best window, with winter’s dampness making the slabs slippery and unreliable. After topping out, the descent is straightforward yet requires attention: a short but careful walk back down through loose terrain invites slow, deliberate footwork.

For those eyeing Blackberry Corner, practical gear recommendations include a standard trad rack emphasizing 2" to 3" cams, a pair of sticky-soled climbing shoes for the slab sections, and a lightweight approach shoe or boot for the trail. Hydration is critical even on shorter climbs—days can warm quickly in these exposed areas, leaving little room for error. Remember, the route’s moderate 5.6 rating offers a taste of trad climbing’s balance without pushing too hard, making it an excellent choice for building confidence or reacquainting yourself with multi-style ascending.

Overall, Blackberry Corner strikes a thoughtful balance between approachable exposure and authentic mountain character. It’s not just a climb—it’s an invitation into the textured walls and stirring winds of Fraser Valley’s outdoor offerings.

Climber Safety

Watch your feet on the loose scree during the descent and be mindful that the flare section’s lack of natural protection requires solid gear placements just above the bolts. Wet conditions can make the slab slippery, so avoid climbing when rock is damp.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length70 feet

Local Tips

Approach early to catch cooler temperatures and better grip on the slab sections.

Stick to trad protection sized between 2" and 3" cams; smaller gear won’t hold well in the flare.

Wear sticky rubber shoes for precise footwork on the featured slab walls.

Descend carefully on loose scree—watch footing and take your time.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.6
Quality
Consensus:Rated a straightforward 5.6, Blackberry Corner features a soft difficulty that mainly resides in maintaining balance and managing slab footwork rather than raw technical moves. The flare section lacks a crack, which, combined with the leaning right wall, keeps the grade feeling approachable. The fist crack near the top offers a slightly easier finish, perfect for climbers easing into trad climbing or warming up. Compared with other regional climbs, it’s less demanding than the nearby Bigfoot routes, serving as an ideal entry point to the area’s characteristic rock.

Gear Requirements

The climb is protected by three bolts along with traditional gear placements ranging from 2 to 3 inches. This combination ensures security through the tricky flare and up the fist crack, but climbers should be comfortable placing mid-sized cams and nuts for optimal safety.

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Tags

fist crack
slab climbing
single pitch
3-bolts
low 5th
moderate exposure