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Campfire Vamp: A Smooth Wall Sport Climb in Squamish

Squamish, British Columbia Canada
sport climbing
technical traverse
smooth granite
single pitch
moderate protection
Length: 60 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Campfire Vamp
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Campfire Vamp presents a focused, one-pitch challenge on Squamish’s smooth Shoot to Kill Wall. Featuring a steady dyke and a technical traverse, this quiet sport route rewards precise footwork and steady nerves."

Campfire Vamp: A Smooth Wall Sport Climb in Squamish

Campfire Vamp carves a deliberate path up the heart of Shoot to Kill Wall, offering an engaging challenge on one of Squamish’s smooth faces. Starting with a steady climb along a distinct dyke, it builds momentum before pushing you into a technical, cruxy traverse left that tests both your balance and precision. This single-pitch, 60-foot route is a compact dose of sport climbing that rewards focus and finesse rather than brute strength.

The wall itself is a broad sheet of polished granite, presenting a canvas that shimmers under the British Columbia sun. Each hold feels earned, carved by weather and climbers alike, requiring careful footwork against subtly textured stone. As you move into the traverse, the rock seems to lean into the movement, inviting you to trust your feet while your hands hunt for secure grips. The anchors await with reassuring bolts, perfect for clipping out or lowering.

Campfire Vamp’s appeal lies in its quiet exclusivity. Despite the bustle of the Sea to Sky corridor, this climb rarely sees crowds, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful push with scenic Squamish wilderness framing their ascent. The climb challenges not just physical skill but also the mental edge—especially for the follower, who must be comfortable at this grade since the climbing feels continuous and engaging without much rest.

For those preparing to send, bring your confidence for clipping and smooth movement. The eight bolts provide solid protection throughout, but strategic placements keep you planning your next move. Expect the rock to offer small edges and friction rather than obvious jugs, so wear sticky shoes and, if possible, practice precise foot placements before attempting the traverse. Timing your climb for the morning or late afternoon will help avoid the peak sun that intensifies the wall’s glare.

Getting to Shoot to Kill Wall is straightforward; a short approach through forested trails leads to a clean base with clear views up the route. The wall’s position in the Sea to Sky corridor means parking and facilities are close, but the setting remains quietly tucked away from the busiest parts of Squamish’s climbing hotspots. Whether you’re looking to build confidence on solid 5.10 sport climbing or enjoy a brief but rewarding outing with character, Campfire Vamp delivers a direct, memorable experience.

This route plays well for climbers eager to work on their technical footwork and crux traverses, with enough length to warm up your body and mind. For locals and visitors alike, it’s a subtle gem that invites a thoughtful approach—where the rock challenges you to keep moving and the surroundings keep you grounded in the rugged beauty of British Columbia’s wild west coast.

Climber Safety

While well-bolted, the smooth granite can be slippery, particularly when damp or in the heat of the day. Climbers should stay sharp on foot placements and communicate clearly with their belayer during the tricky traverse.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length60 feet

Local Tips

Start early or late to avoid direct sun on the wall.

Ensure your second is practiced at sustained 5.10c follow climbing; the route demands focus throughout.

Wear clean, sticky climbing shoes to maximize friction on polished granite.

Pack a lightweight rack with eight quickdraws for efficient clipping.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10c
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10c rating suits climbers confident in technical and balance-focused moves rather than brute strength. The crux traverse elevates the challenge slightly, with a pull that demands precise footwork and core tension. Compared to other sport climbs in the area, Campfire Vamp feels straightforward but unrelenting, with little room to rest once the crux hits.

Gear Requirements

Eight well-placed bolts protect the entire route, making quickdraws the main gear to carry. Sticky shoes are essential for the smooth granite, especially for the crux traverse section.

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Tags

sport climbing
technical traverse
smooth granite
single pitch
moderate protection