House Music stands out as a concise yet demanding trad climb that tests both technical finesse and mental focus against the raw backdrop of The Smoke Bluffs in Squamish, British Columbia. This 80-foot route packs a powerful punch within a single pitch, beginning with a subtle but pivotal crux that involves reaching the first bolt and finding solid footing on the upper wall. The rock here demands attentive footwork and precision, with edges and crystal holds that seem to challenge your grip with every move. The route follows closely alongside the bolt line seen on the neighboring Gross Incompetence climb, veering right just after a narrow ledge that offers a brief moment of relief and a fallback point if a slip occurs.

Beyond this initial struggle, climbers shift into a sequence of face moves that require deft balance and confident placements, progressing towards a mini arete where laybacking becomes the key to the top-out. This final section engages the climber’s upper body and core strength in equal measure, making for a dynamic finish that feels rewarding after the technical approach below.

Protection on House Music is predominantly trad, progressing from finger-sized cams placed at the start up to hand-size pieces nearing BD #1 as the route ascends. The two bolts encountered serve as critical security points, especially near the anchor, which is fully bolted with rap rings for a smooth, straightforward descent. These bolts supplement the traditional placements without compromising the route’s adventurous spirit.

Approaching House Music takes you into The Smoke Bluffs area, a climbing hub acclaimed for its accessible granite and variety of routes. Despite its popularity, this climb retains a sense of quiet focus, thanks in part to its short but punchy nature. The trail to the base is moderate, carved through stands of forest that intermittently open to views of Squamish and the surrounding mountains. Expect about a 20-minute walk on well-maintained paths, with GPS coordinates marking the approach reliably at latitude 49.706 and longitude -123.1403.

House Music is best tackled during the warmer months when the rock is dry, and the sun hits the wall at a favorable angle, warming the granite for better friction. Early morning to late afternoon climbs are ideal during summer, as shade moves around the face but never fully abandons it.

Planning gear should prioritize a rack suffused with finger to thin hand-sized cams, paired with a couple of nuts, and a set of quickdraws for the bolts. Carefully place protection where rock features suggest secure exits, avoiding any loose crystals. Shoes with sticky soles will enhance the precision required to navigate the delicate face sections.

This route calls to those who enjoy engaging but manageable challenges—perfect for trad climbers ready to sharpen skills without committing to multi-pitch complexity. For safety, be alert to the ledge positioned halfway up: while it provides a fall shelf, slips here could still result in swinging falls, so controlled, deliberate moves are critical.

House Music’s blend of straightforward access, solid protection, and intricate technical demands make it a compelling choice for climbers visiting The Smoke Bluffs, looking to meld skill-building with the satisfaction of a well-earned send.