Perched just southeast of Kamloops, the Scuitto Bluffs offer a refreshing alternative to the region’s more frequented crags. Rising to nearly 1300 meters above sea level, these granite walls provide climbers with a landscape shaped by discontinuous cracks and featured slabs that emphasize precision footwork over brute strength. While technically approachable with largely moderate grades, the area still presents a high-quality challenge that rewards patience and finesse.

The South-facing bluffs catch the sun early but surprise visitors with tree-filtered shade spots perfect for comfortable belays. A welcoming breeze sweeps through often enough to ease the heat on summer days, making this a solid choice when nearby Kamloops climbs bake in relentless sunshine. At elevation, you’ll experience a temperature drop of around 6 to 7 degrees Celsius compared to the city, offering a pleasant climate for longer sessions.

Access requires a bit more effort than some nearby crags, but it’s well worth the journey for those seeking quiet routes and a chance to escape the crowds. Located near Scuitto Lake, the approach involves a 55 to 60-minute drive from Kamloops, followed by a 10 to 20-minute hike from the designated parking area. Although the road is manageable in a typical 2WD vehicle during summer and fall, an SUV with clearance is recommended to navigate the last segment smoothly.

The trail itself is still finding its feet as a climbing access path, marked mostly by cairns and occasional sticks. The route begins at a large boulder by a side road and leads you through gently forested terrain to the climbing walls. Two major climbing zones await — an initial section known as Lower Deck and the upper plateau where the imposing Kraken Wall dominates the skyline.

Among the favorite climbs here, The Kraken stands out with its hard sport route challenge rated 5.12d, attracting climbers eager for a test of skill on steep, featured slabs. For those looking for something a bit more moderate, Swashbuckler (5.9) and Walk the Plank (5.8) offer engaging climbs with solid movement and healthy exposure. Other notable lines on the granite include Black Pearl, Sea Legs, Walk the Chicken, and Yo Ho Ho, each offering its own style and pace but always emphasizing balance and calculated foot placement.

Gear-wise, expect to mix trad gear for protection—especially for the cracks—with sport gear on bolted sections. The rock angle encourages delicate movements rather than constant jamming, so climbers with a focus on footwork and crack technique will feel at home here.

Weather conditions fluctuate as you ascend into the high plateau. While summer presents the most stable climbing window, spring weather remains untested with respect to road access. Fall climbs can be cool and quiet, delivering crisp air and fewer fellow climbers. For safety, be cautious on the approach road’s rough patches, and note that the trail is not heavily trafficked or well-worn yet, making GPS guidance invaluable. Once on the rock, the granite slabs and cracks are generally solid, but it’s wise to double-check anchors and protection points.

Descent is straightforward with easy downclimbing or walking off the plateau back to the trailhead. With thoughtful planning and awareness of the area’s terrain and conditions, Scuitto Bluffs rewards climbers with a mix of adventure, technical variety, and a temperate mountain atmosphere not far from civilization.

For those venturing to Kamloops and looking to expand their climbing portfolio beyond the better-known Hen House, Scuitto Bluffs offer a practical and scenic destination. Its blend of accessible grades, distinct rock features, and refreshing elevation makes it an appealing spot to sharpen trad and sport skills while enjoying the less crowded spaces this part of British Columbia has to offer.