"Funarama offers a sharp, technical 75-foot crack climb in Squamish’s Smoke Bluffs, presenting a rewarding test of finger strength and movement precision. This single-pitch trad route blends solid granite texture with a cruxy finish that challenges intermediate climbers ready to refine their crack climbing skills."
Funarama stands as a focused challenge amid the rugged rock faces of The Smoke Bluffs, just outside Squamish, British Columbia. This compact, single-pitch climb stretches approximately 75 feet, demanding a blend of precision and persistence from climbers ready to engage with its thin crack system. The route traces a clean, vertical fissure that beckons climbers to finger-lock their way upward, testing balance and patience as the crack narrows and shifts, offering little room for hesitance.
As you ascend, the crack leads directly to a small ledge marking a natural pause where the ramp of Funarampa slides in from the left, creating a distinct intersection in the climb. Here, the straightforward vertical rhythm breaks; the crack abruptly ends, and the challenge shifts to a tactical lateral move. Moving slightly left initially, climbers then work back right towards the route’s summit, negotiating a technical and cruxy finish that demands both mental focus and refined technique.
Protection is straightforward, primarily requiring gear up to one inch in size, suitable for the consistent crack sections below the ledge. However, the final moves lack obvious placements and demand confident movement on solid rock. The rock here, characteristic of the granite walls common around Squamish, offers reliable friction but requires careful footwork.
Funarama’s location in The Smoke Bluffs delivers more than just climbing; the surrounding area pulses with the energy of the forest and open views over the Squamish Valley. The approach is relatively short and accessible, guiding climbers through trails lined with fir and cedar trees whose needles soften the earth beneath your boots. The Smoke Bluffs offer a year-round climbing playground, but this route favors cooler parts of the day, as southern exposures can heat up quickly in the summer months.
For those planning an outing, adequate hydration is vital, especially during warmer weather, and footwear with solid edging capability will enhance comfort on the slabby sections. Given the technical nature of the final moves, climbers should be prepared to trust thin protection and focus on body positioning—this climb rewards calculated patience over brute strength.
Funarama’s 5.9 rating forms a solid benchmark for intermediate trad climbers looking to sharpen crack skills with a route that combines straightforward climbing with a thoughtful finish. The route feels fair but provides a surprising technical challenge that elevates the experience beyond a simple crack climb. For visitors to Squamish, this climb is a great primer for more extensive multi-pitch adventures in the region. It invites a crisp, concentrated experience on high-quality granite, wrapped in the active pulse of one of North America's iconic climbing destinations.
Watch for limited protection options at the crux and rely on secure placements below the ledge. Rock quality is solid but remain cautious with foot placements on the slabby finish to avoid slips.
Start early to avoid afternoon sun heating the rock, especially in summer.
Firm edging shoes will help tackle the slabby sections leading to the top.
Stay hydrated and pace yourself, as the crux requires calm and precise movements.
Be prepared for limited gear options near the crux, trusting friction and technique.
Traditional protection to one inch fills the crack sections comfortably, though the top finish relies on body positioning rather than gear placements. Carry a standard rack with finger- to hand-sized cams and some nuts for optimal coverage.
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