HomeClimbingForty-six

Forty-six at Insite Wall: A Focused Sport Climb in Sea to Sky

Squamish,Canada
sport climbing
Sea to Sky
pumpy
technical start
granite
single pitch
well-bolted
Grade: 5.10c
Length: 80 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Forty-six
Aspect
South Facing

Forty-six

5.10c, Sport

Squamish

Canada

Overview

"Forty-six offers an intense 80-foot sport climb on Insite Wall’s granite, demanding sustained technique and strength. Its direct line combines a tricky start with pumpy yet secure climbing that makes it a must-try for Sea to Sky adventurers."

Forty-six at Insite Wall: A Focused Sport Climb in Sea to Sky

Set against the rugged backdrop of the Sea to Sky corridor, Forty-six rises with confident precision on the Insite Wall within Area 44, a classic destination for climbers seeking a blend of technical challenge and pure movement. This sport route demands attention from the very start, where the approach shares a path with Forty-four but quickly diverges into a direct line that tests both balance and finger strength. The opening moves require careful footwork and a steady composure, as the climb begins in a surprisingly awkward sequence on tight holds. Align yourself slightly right of the bolt line here to maintain the 5.10c grading without escalating difficulty.

Beyond the initial crux, the route opens into eighty feet of continuous vertical climbing marked by consistently positive holds that invite dynamic yet measured movement. This section is not about long rests or easy stretches; instead, it offers sustained, pump-inducing sequences that reward climbers who bring endurance alongside technique. The rhythm here flows through an engaged succession of moves where the rock feels alive beneath your fingertips, the polished granite glowing faintly under the Pacific Northwest’s often soft light.

Protection is well thought out to match the character of the climb. Ten bolts anchor the line—initially cramped near the base, requiring precise clipping and mindful positioning, but spaced more generously toward the top where the moves become more strenuous. This spacing ensures safety without sacrificing the flow, encouraging climbers to link sequences while managing pumping forearms.

Sea to Sky’s mountainous environment adds a layer of atmosphere to Forty-six, with the nearby Whistler and Squamish corridor offering dramatic vistas and fresh alpine air. The route’s placement on the Insite Wall means it benefits from the area's often reliable weather patterns, with a west-facing aspect that catches the afternoon sun and dries quickly after light coastal showers. This makes it ideal for late-morning starts, allowing climbers to warm up with a streamlined approach before tackling the sustained climbing.

Approaching Forty-six involves a short, well-marked hike from the base parking area, with solid trail surfaces and minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for climbers of a wide fitness range. The surrounding forest hums with life—the whispered rustle of fir and cedar and the occasional call of birds—that frames the climb in a quietly vivid natural setting. While the route itself challenges focus and physical effort, the broader environment keeps the spirit grounded and connected to the outdoors.

For those preparing to take on Forty-six, footwear with excellent edging capability will facilitate confident footholds on the sometimes polished granite. Staying hydrated is crucial; though the approach is short, the intensity of the climb demands readiness for sustained muscle engagement. Timing your ascent to avoid the early morning chill or late evening wind will improve conditions and comfort alike.

Forty-six offers an accessible yet invigorating sport climbing experience that captures the essence of Sea to Sky’s technical rock climbing scene. It’s a route that rewards commitment—both mentally and physically—with a straightforward but demanding line that leaves climbers ready for the next challenge, their arms tired but their enthusiasm renewed.

Climber Safety

Be mindful of the narrow bolt spacing at the base—clipping here requires deliberate positioning to avoid falling awkwardly. Also, the polished rock sections can be slick in moist conditions, so check weather forecasts before heading out.

Route Specifications

Route Details

5.10c
TypeSport
Pitches1
Length80 feet

Local Tips

Start slightly right of the bolt line to keep the initial crux at 5.10c difficulty.

Wear shoes with sharp edging to maintain grip on polished granite.

Begin your ascent mid-morning to catch dry rock and avoid early chill.

Carry sufficient water despite the short approach to stay energized throughout the climb.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10c
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10c rating holds true, with the starting moves feeling slightly stiff due to an awkward sequence and tight bolt placements. Once past this, the climbing smooths into engaging but manageable sequences, with a crux that challenges endurance rather than pure power. Compared to other Sea to Sky routes, Forty-six offers a straightforward but thorough test of sustained technique.

Gear Requirements

Equipped with 10 bolts, the route demands careful clipping at the start due to close spacing and features more generous bolt intervals higher up, ideal for protecting pumpy sequences on positive holds.

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Tags

sport climbing
Sea to Sky
pumpy
technical start
granite
single pitch
well-bolted