HomeClimbingBootsauce

Bootsauce: A Distinctive Trad Climb at Harrison Bluffs

Chilliwack, Canada
trad climbing
single pitch
British Columbia
creative gear
featured holds
dry rock
Length: 50 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Bootsauce
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Bootsauce challenges trad climbers with a 50-foot pitch distinguished by its large featured holds and inventive protection. Located in British Columbia’s Harrison Bluffs, this route blends accessible difficulty with a clever gear strategy, inviting climbers to connect intuitively with the rock."

Bootsauce: A Distinctive Trad Climb at Harrison Bluffs

Bootsauce offers a unique, experiential climb that suits adventurous trad climbers looking to engage directly with the rock’s character. Situated on the right side of a small dome feature at Harrison Bluffs in Fraser Valley, British Columbia, this 50-foot pitch stands out for its spacious holds and less conventional crack climbing. The route’s name pays homage to its original ascent—completed in cowboy boots—which hints at the route’s blend of style and grit. The climb guides you over generous, textured holds that demand both balance and creativity, especially as you shift left near the top where the line opens up.

The approach to this area is straightforward, positioned within the well-regarded Wayback Layback zone. Starting from a compact dome, the climb offers a confident step into the crag’s rugged face without the need for a maze of crack jams or finger locks that some traditional routes require. Instead, it invites a varied gear placement strategy—demanding careful observation to find optimal protection spots among small to medium cams and wires. The rock preserves a pleasant roughness, rewarding careful footwork against a backdrop of the Fraser Valley’s forested ridges and sweeping views.

This route is well suited for climbers looking to expand their trad repertoire with a climb that balances accessible difficulty with an intriguing protection challenge. Rated 5.7, Bootsauce feels approachable yet engages your problem-solving skills on the pro front, requiring a thoughtful approach to gear placement. The route's character lends itself to a quiet but focused ascent where the rock seems to respond just as much as the climber navigates it.

When planning your climb, consider timing your visit to avoid high heat; the wall enjoys dappled morning sun and transitions into shade by afternoon, helping keep grip secure and the effort sensible. Bring a selection of cams and wires, as gear opportunities are present but not obvious at first glance. This route suits solo climbs or small groups looking to experience a slice of Fraser Valley climbing that rewards patience and creativity.

Access details, beta insights, and pro guidance will arm you with everything you need to face Bootsauce confidently. Beyond the climb itself, Harrison Bluffs offers a compelling setting that blends remoteness with accessibility, making this line a must-try for those seeking variety in British Columbia’s diverse trad climbing scene.

Climber Safety

Protection requires attentive gear placement on less obvious cracks and pockets—don’t rush placements. The rock is solid but the protection zone demands a calm, deliberate approach to avoid risky falls. Also, be mindful of variable weather conditions as moisture can reduce grip.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length50 feet

Local Tips

Start early to catch the morning sun on the wall, which improves grip and comfort.

Bring a mix of small to medium cams and wires to cover the protection needs.

Footwear with good friction is essential due to the textured but varied holds.

Check weather forecasts to avoid wet conditions which can make the rock slippery.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.7
Quality
Consensus:Bootsauce is rated a moderate 5.7 but the grade is honest rather than soft. While the moves are accessible, the route’s challenge centers on gear placement, which can raise the overall effort as you methodically search for pro spots. Compared to nearby Harrison Bluffs climbs, Bootsauce provides a more approachable grade with a focus on balance and technique over strenuous moves.

Gear Requirements

Expect to place inventive protection on this route using a selection of small to medium cams and wires. The protection spots are not straightforward cracks, so prepare to search carefully for solid placements that keep the climb safe yet challenging.

Share Your Ascent

Upload your photos of Bootsauce and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.

Tags

trad climbing
single pitch
British Columbia
creative gear
featured holds
dry rock