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Insomnia: A Technical Test on Terrace Mountain

Terrace, Canada
sustained
technical
bolt-protected
single pitch
granite
northern BC
Length: 65 ft
Type: Sport | Top Rope
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Insomnia
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Insomnia offers a sustained, technical 65-foot challenge on Terrace Mountain’s granite face. Ideal for climbers seeking to fine-tune their technique, this route demands precision and careful pacing amid the quiet northern forest backdrop."

Insomnia: A Technical Test on Terrace Mountain

Insomnia climbs with a deliberate intensity on the remote cliffs of Terrace Mountain, just north of Terrace in British Columbia. This single pitch route stretches 65 feet of steep, sustained movement that demands focus from start to finish. The rock leans into a compact challenge that can feel particularly demanding if you're under average height, as the moves at the bottom require precise reach and body tension. Once engaged, the climb flows through a sequence of well-spaced bolts, offering a measured rhythm for sport climbers ready to push their limits.

Terrace Mountain’s granite slabs rise amid dense forests, their surfaces catching afternoon light as the day progresses. The anchoring station shares space with the nearby route The Horn, easing logistics at the top and providing a reliable rappel point for a clean descent back to the ground. Approach trails wind through thick evergreens, delivering a quiet solitude that only enhances the focus required on the wall.

Despite its modest rating of 5.9, Insomnia presents a sustained effort with little room for rest, making it an excellent choice for climbers sharpening technical skills and endurance. The route’s limited protection consists of seven bolts that maintain solid spacing, along with two hangars with rings at the anchor. These fixed points need to be inspected before trusting them fully, especially given the wet climate common to Northern BC, which can impact hardware longevity.

Accessing the area requires a short hike through a brushy trail that skirts the looser forest floor. Climbers are advised to wear sturdy footwear with good traction for the uneven approach and carry enough water, as the backcountry setting offers few services nearby.

The vertical stretch rewards with a clear view of the surrounding wilderness, where the whisper of pines and distant bird calls sharpen awareness. Whether this is your first trip into Northern BC’s climbing terrain or part of a longer climbing quest, Insomnia serves as a solid, focused climb that hones technique while connecting you to a quieter side of Canadian alpine climbing.

Climber Safety

Inspect anchors carefully before rappelling, as the two hangars with rings are exposed to the moist mountain environment and may show wear; always double-check your setup. The approach trail’s uneven surface can be hazardous in wet weather.

Route Details

TypeSport | Top Rope
Pitches1
Length65 feet

Local Tips

Approach trail can be slick—wear solid hiking shoes with grip.

Check weather, as damp conditions make the granite slippery.

Bring enough water; no nearby sources at the base.

Anchor shares rappel with The Horn; bring a 60m rope for a single rappel.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:Though officially rated 5.9, Insomnia feels firmly in that grade with a sustained sequence of moves and a crux early on that challenges shorter climbers. The protection spacing encourages thoughtful clipping and steady rhythm without becoming runout. Compared to other 5.9 routes in the region, it leans towards the more sustained side, offering solid practice for refining endurance on vertical faces.

Gear Requirements

The climb is bolted with seven bolts spaced to allow a steady pace, ending at two hangars with rings that double as anchors. Use standard sport climbing draws and check ring conditions before descent.

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Tags

sustained
technical
bolt-protected
single pitch
granite
northern BC