HomeClimbingCruising the Cableways

Cruising the Cableways

Squamish, British Columbia Canada
trad
crack climbing
roof
slab
two-pitch
granite
standard rack
Length: 150 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
2
Location
Cruising the Cableways
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Cruising the Cableways in Squamish challenges trad climbers with two engaging pitches of crack and slab climbing. This compact 150-foot route blends technical moves with approachable protection in a spectacular granite setting."

Cruising the Cableways

Set within the rugged expanse of Squamish’s Gondola Area, 'Cruising the Cableways' offers a focused trad challenge that demands both technical skill and steady nerves. This two-pitch climb begins on a solid ledge, where the rock, alive with subtle textures, draws you upward toward a distinctive roof that marks the first crux. Navigating this overhang requires precise footwork and committed hand jams, rewarding climbers with a sense of accomplishment as the terrain shifts into a clean slab that lies just beyond. The second pitch presents a shift in rhythm — the crack systems open up into thinner seams that veer right, encouraging deliberate moves and mindful placements. Here, the rock’s gritty surface promises reliable friction, while the line’s natural bends test the leader’s ability to read the route and protect efficiently.

At just 150 feet total length and rated 5.10d, this route offers a compact yet intense experience, suitable for climbers looking to push their trad skills in a space that balances difficulty with accessibility. The location within Squamish provides a commanding backdrop, as the towering granite walls around Wrinkle Dome catch the shifting light through the day, enhancing the climb’s atmosphere without compromising visibility or safety.

Protection is straightforward — a standard rack will keep you secure, though careful attention to smaller gear on the second pitch is crucial given the thin crack features. Aside from the physical demands, the approach is comfortably short, setting the stage for a half-day outing that mixes adventure with efficiency. Whether you’re topping out for the first time or refining your crack devices, 'Cruising the Cableways' encourages a tactical approach, blending straightforward climbing with moments of exacting technique.

Prepare with supportive footwear offering precision in toe jams and sticky soles for slab movement. Water and layered clothing are recommended due to varying temperature shifts near the ocean-influenced climate of Squamish. Early starts help beat the afternoon wind, and mornings provide the best conditions on the wall. The surrounding forest hums with the quiet persistence of nature, as wind brushes distant pines and birds call just beyond sight, reminding you that this climb unfolds in a living, breathing landscape. Descending via a short walk-off keeps the adrenaline in check, making the route as appropriate for an inspired afternoon getaway as for sharpening your trad tactics in prime climbing country.

Climber Safety

Be mindful of the roof on pitch one; falls here can be pendulum-prone. Also, the thinner cracks on pitch two require precise gear placement — avoid runouts by doubling up on smaller cams where possible.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches2
Length150 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon winds that pick up in the Gondola Area.

Wear shoes with sticky rubber for slab sections, especially on pitch two.

Pack layers to stay comfortable with changing temperatures near the coast.

Double-check gear placements on the thin seams to ensure reliable protection.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10d
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.10d, this climb feels appropriately challenging with a distinct crux at the roof on the first pitch that demands solid jam technique and confident body positioning. The second pitch holds a sustained difficulty with thin, technical cracks. Compared to nearby routes in Squamish’s Gondola Area, it holds a solid mid-range rating that feels earned without stepping into heady terrain.

Gear Requirements

Bring a standard trad rack emphasizing small cams and nuts to protect the roof on pitch one and the thinner cracks on pitch two.

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Tags

trad
crack climbing
roof
slab
two-pitch
granite
standard rack