"Burgers and Fries is a single-pitch trad climb located on the left side of The Smoke Bluffs in Squamish. This 60-foot route features a prominent crack that transitions into slabby moves above a hidden horizontal break, offering a balanced challenge in classic granite."
On the left edge of The Smoke Bluffs’ broad face in Squamish, Burgers and Fries offers a straightforward yet satisfying trad climb, stretching just 60 feet with a single pitch. The route begins with a distinct crack that rises steadily, promising manageable hand jams and finger locks. Midway, the crack disappears beneath an almost blank section of rock, but patience reveals a hidden horizontal break just out of sight from the ground. Above this subtle ledge, protection fades, inviting a series of delicate slab moves that test balance and mental focus rather than raw power. Climbers find themselves negotiating smooth rock that demands controlled footwork and steady nerves to reach the fixed bolt anchors at the top.
The scene around this climb is classic Squamish: the granite face warmed by the sun, the smell of forest floor drifting in from the base, and soft wind whispering through the pines above. Though the climb doesn’t boast extreme technical difficulty, its PG-13 rating hints at a need for respect—protection thins near the upper slabs, requiring confidence in slab technique. Two bolts cap the pitch but there’s no rappel station, so descending means a careful walk off to the left, a brief but exposed path that rewards awareness and steady steps.
Approach is straightforward, tracing well-marked trails within The Smoke Bluffs, a climbing area known for accessible walls close to Squamish town. With an elevation that isn’t demanding, the climb fits perfectly into a half-day outing or as a warm-up before more challenging routes. The granite here is textured with enough friction to keep feet planted solidly, even on the slab sections that feel machine-clean but hold surprisingly well for toe smears.
Gear-wise, this climb calls for a standard trad rack, with an emphasis on medium and small cams and nuts to protect the crack section. The bolts at the top provide security for top roping or an easy anchor, but do not expect any fixed rappel points. Timing your climb for cooler morning or late afternoon hours is wise; the western-facing wall bakes in midday sun, which can make slabs tricky on hot days.
Burgers and Fries offers an approachable adventure for those looking to sharpen slab skills with reliable protection on classic granite. It’s a route that encourages thoughtful movement, rewarding a steady pace and careful gear placement. This climb is a solid introduction to Smoke Bluffs’ more relaxed trad lines, pairing outdoor fun with easy access to one of North America’s premier granite playgrounds.
Protection becomes sparse above the hidden horizontal crack, requiring precise gear placement early and confidence on slab to avoid runouts. The walk-off descent demands attention to footing on a narrow, loose trail without fixed anchors to rappel.
Approach on well-marked trails, expect 10-15 minutes from main parking.
Use medium cams for the main crack, smaller gear for tricky placements near horizontal break.
Start early or late to avoid midday heat on the slabby upper section.
Walk off to the left of the route carefully—watch footing on loose dirt and small rocks.
Standard trad rack with medium and small cams, nuts for the crack protection; two bolts at the top for anchor or top rope; no rappel anchors so plan for a walk-off.
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