Houdini offers a tight, rewarding crack climb that tests your technical skills on a compact but engaging wall just outside Powell River, British Columbia. The route begins with a delicate finger crack leading you onto a small ledge, where you can pause to appreciate the rugged textures of the rock and the quiet of the surrounding forest. From there, the climb extends up a corner, demanding steady footwork and precise hand jams as you navigate the exposed groove. The granite surface is firm but textured, inviting climbers to focus on tactile feedback and body positioning rather than brute strength.

Although the climb measures merely 20 feet, its single pitch packs a punch for climbers brushing up on their crack techniques before tackling larger lines in the area. Bolts are anchored at the top, providing a reassuring top-rope anchor and making Houdini a perfect training ground or warm-up for longer routes nearby. The crux sits just past the ledge, where the rock tightens and requires confidence in your crack climbing and balance. This route invites a direct relationship with the rock—its corners push you to feel every subtle feature beneath your fingers.

The approach is brief but demands attention as the trail weaves through dense coastal forest, alive with the sounds of distant bird calls and the rustle of the wind through towering cedars. A quick hike leads to the base, giving you time to center your focus before the climb. Given its exposure, Houdini is best tackled during the drier months from late spring to early fall when the rock dries quickly and the weather remains stable. Wearing sturdy shoes with good toe precision is recommended to navigate the technical foot placements, and bringing a light rack with a selection of small to medium cams is ideal since protection is limited to bolts only at the top.

For those looking to sharpen their crack leading skills, Houdini is an accessible slice of technical climbing surrounded by the peaceful wilderness of British Columbia’s coast. It offers an intimate challenge with practical gear needs and straightforward beta that make it approachable for trad climbers confident at the 5.9- level. Whether you’re training for longer multi-pitch routes or simply seeking a quick outing with solid climbing, Houdini answers with focused movement and a chance to engage the rock directly under your hands and feet.