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Island Hoping: Technical Sport Climbing at Southern Dihedrals

Terrace, Canada
technical slab
face climbing
friction moves
bolted
short pitch
Northern B.C.
Copper Mountain
Length: 28 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Island Hoping
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Island Hoping delivers a sharp test in technical slab climbing, weaving precise face and friction moves along a subtle groove. Its bolted anchors and moderate length make it an accessible, focused challenge at Southern Dihedrals in Northern British Columbia."

Island Hoping: Technical Sport Climbing at Southern Dihedrals

Island Hoping offers a focused burst of technical sport climbing that rewards precision and steady feet. Situated on the left edge of a slab at Southern Dihedrals, this 28-foot route challenges climbers with sustained friction moves that demand both balance and control. The line skirts just left of a subtle corner, leading into a shallow groove where the rock’s texture presses under your fingertips and toes, inviting quiet confidence. This one-pitch climb stands out for its consistent difficulty, relying on delicate face climbing rather than power. The well-placed bolts provide solid safety, allowing climbers to push their technique without hesitation.

The route’s location on Copper Mountain’s Terrace section offers a quiet setting in Northern British Columbia—a place where the cool mountain air mingles with the texture of the rock beneath your hands. The slab’s angle encourages a nimble, thoughtful approach, perfect for climbers looking to hone crackless climbing skills. As you ascend, the friction increases, testing your ability to read the rock and maintain tension through your limbs.

Southern Dihedrals itself is a remote area best approached with careful planning. Reaching the climbing sector requires navigating forested trails and rugged terrain, set in a landscape that holds the stillness and rawness of Northern B.C.’s wilderness. The route’s short length makes it an ideal focused project during a day of climbing larger systems, offering a concentrated dose of technical face climbing.

To tackle Island Hoping successfully, climbers should prepare with footwear optimized for edges and smears, and be ready for a climb that demands subtle weight shifts and precise footwork. The route’s bolted protection simplifies gear choices, but the mindset must be sharp—each move leans into the friction and precision that characterize its character. Morning climbs offer steady lighting on the slab, while afternoon shade can make the slick rock feel cooler and more challenging.

In all, Island Hoping delivers a pure, technical face climb with a sustained difficulty that climbs toward 5.10d, perfect for climbers seeking focused progression in a quiet northern setting. Keep hydration and layering in mind when venturing here—Northern B.C. weather shifts fast, and a crisp breeze can surprise you. This route invites you to balance patience with persistence and emerge with improved footwork and confidence on slab terrain.

Climber Safety

Keep a close eye on footholds as the slab relies heavily on friction, which can become slick when damp or cool. The approach trail is uneven and can be slippery after rain, so plan accordingly.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length28 feet

Local Tips

Start early to catch the sunlit slab before afternoon shade cools the rock.

Wear climbing shoes with sticky rubber optimized for slab edges and smears.

Bring layers and water; northern B.C. temperatures can shift quickly.

Approach trails can be rocky and uneven—sturdy footwear and careful navigation are advised.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10d
Quality
Consensus:The 5.10d rating reflects sustained technical climbing with a consistent challenge rather than a single crux move. It leans into slab technique with subtle foot placements and body positioning. Climbers familiar with similar slab lines in the Pacific Northwest will find the grade well-calibrated, though the friction demands on slightly cool rock can stiffen the effort.

Gear Requirements

Fully bolted with a secure ring anchor. No additional gear is required beyond your sport rack and personal safety equipment.

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Tags

technical slab
face climbing
friction moves
bolted
short pitch
Northern B.C.
Copper Mountain