"Hunters Moon offers a compelling trad climb on Squamish's Gobsmacking Wall, weaving technical slab moves with a tricky flare crack. This two-pitch ascent demands creative thinking and precise protection placement, perfect for climbers ready to test their slab and crack skills."
Hunters Moon stakes its claim on the left flank of Gobsmacking Wall, presenting climbers with a compelling trad route that demands both finesse and boldness. Originating near the base of the well-known Hungry Wolf, this line veers left, skirting a prominent ledge to begin negotiating an exposed arete. Here, a hidden dike reveals itself shortly after a technical slab move, offering a brief yet critical refuge where a single bolt is strategically placed. The route tests your problem-solving skills as you maneuver out right and up a thin crack that flares outward in a way that seems to defy gravity. This challenging sequence forces climbers to engage creatively, rewarding those who embrace unconventional body positioning and thoughtful gear placement.
After escaping the flare, the climb transitions onto smoother slab terrain, leading to a treed ledge that sits below a sustained 5.10 face crack. This final section, often dusted with loose debris, demands patience and careful footwork as you ascend toward the shared anchors used by Hungry Wolf. At roughly 180 feet over two pitches, Hunters Moon offers a compact yet varied ascent that blends technical slab moves with crack climbing through some of Squamish’s most dynamic rock features.
The route requires solid trad skills, with protection relying on doubles up to #1 Camalot and a single #2, primarily for delicate placements. The rock quality is generally good but cautious players will want to be wary of the often dusty midsection, adding a layer of complexity to an already demanding climb. Located in Gobsmacking Wall’s shadowed granite face, the route's position lends itself to afternoon shade and cooler climbing conditions in warmer months, extending the season for those chasing a late summer send.
Approaching Hunters Moon is straightforward from the base of Gobsmacking Wall, where a well-marked trail from Shannon Falls brings you close in under an hour. The terrain is steep but manageable, passing by the bustle of Squamish’s climbing hub and soon entering quieter, more rugged surroundings that isolate you in a natural arena carved by time. Whether you’re sharpening your trad prowess or mixing technical moves with creative problem-solving, Hunters Moon stands as an invitation to engage deeply with Squamish’s adventurous spirit.
Watch for loose rock and dust accumulation on the upper face crack, which can reduce friction and make gear trickier to place securely. The single bolt on the dike is a rare fixed piece—rely on solid trad placements elsewhere to minimize risk.
Start early to avoid crowds and catch morning light on the approach trail.
Bring a brush for cleaning the often dusty face crack on pitch two.
Expect cooler temperatures during afternoon shade; dress in layers accordingly.
Double-check gear placements on the dike’s bolt and flare crack for added security.
Carry doubles from small cams up to a #1 Camalot and a single #2. The protection opportunities lean toward delicate placements, especially on the thin crack and slab sections, so precise gear handling will increase confidence on the route.
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