"Cougarlicious offers a compact but technically engaging 40-foot sport climb at Cougar Crag near Cypress Falls. With fun roof moves and reliable bolt protection, it's an ideal challenge for climbers eager to sharpen technique close to the water’s edge."
Cougarlicious stands out as a compact yet vibrant sport route tucked into the rugged contours of Cougar Crag, just beyond Cypress Falls near Vancouver, British Columbia. This single-pitch climb stretches about 40 feet, inviting climbers into a lively sequence that begins with a careful approach along the same start as the popular Awkward Proposition. Once on route, the challenge intensifies as you work your way right beneath a low-hanging roof before pressing over it. The moves demand clear focus and precise body positioning—a satisfying mix of technical footwork and upper-body tension.
The wall’s rock, gripped by an array of well-placed bolts, offers reliable protection that lets you push confidently despite the compact nature of the climb. However, both the climber and belayer face an unusual opposition: the proximity to the water below. The route's location by the base means the belay area and climbers are in close quarters with the creek, which can create a slippery presence and adds an unpredictable element to the ascent.
Despite the route’s brevity, Cougarlicious delivers an energetic burst of movement that engages without overwhelming. The 5.10c/d rating signals a route that leans toward the upper intermediate zone—tough enough to sharpen skills but accessible for climbers ready to test their technique on sport bolts. Ideal conditions emerge during dry seasons when the rock is firm and grips respond crisply.
Warming up at Cypress Falls, adventurers can enjoy a nearby waterfall’s steady murmur, grounding the climb in the wild’s immediacy. The air carries the cool scent of cedar and damp stone, while occasional sunlight filters through the overhead canopy, casting shifting patches of light over the crag. Planning your visit midweek or early morning can help you avoid the crowds and enjoy a more personal connection with this quietly spirited route.
Packing light but precise gear, climbers should bring shoes with sticky rubber and quickdraws for the pre-installed bolts. The route’s short length makes it a perfect half-day outing or a solid warm-up before exploring other walls in the Cougar Crag area. Expect to spend roughly 10 to 20 minutes on the ascent, with approach and descent adding to your total outing time. Hydration and caution around the water are essential since wet surfaces can quickly turn slick.
Cougarlicious offers a sharp, practical introduction to sport climbing at this popular corridor, combining natural features with sport climbing’s accessible protection style. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this route gives a satisfying taste of British Columbia’s climbing edge without demanding a day-long effort. It’s a precise, lively climb that challenges without intimidation and rewards with a clean line and memorable moves beneath the watchful presence of Cypress Falls.
Caution is advised around the belay station, which can be slippery due to its proximity to flowing water. Wet surfaces can diminish footing and increase risk, so maintain secure stances and double-check anchors before committing to moves.
Be prepared for a wet and potentially slippery belay platform near the creek.
Visit during dry weather to avoid damp rock conditions.
Approach early in the day to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Wear shoes with excellent grip and bring adequate quickdraws for the bolted protection.
The route is fully bolted, requiring standard sport climbing gear with quickdraws. Sticky rubber shoes are recommended to tackle technical foot placements, especially on the roof section.
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