"Made of Clay slices up the heart of Gumby’s Wall with three distinct cruxes, offering 5.10d trad climbing that demands focus and precise gear placement. Perfect for climbers seeking a sustained single-pitch challenge in The Smoke Bluffs’ raw granite embrace."
Made of Clay carves a purposeful line up the middle of Gumby's Wall, a striking granite face tucked within The Smoke Bluffs near Squamish, British Columbia. This single-pitch route demands precision and focus from the first clipped bolt to the final ascension into a shallow corner just right of a prominent white streak. From the base, the wall looms with an austere presence that challenges climbers to read the subtle texture of the rock, where every hold requires intention and placement. The approach offers a short but steep hike that winds through dense forest, where the scent of pine and the cool hum of the surrounding wilderness prepare you for the vertical test ahead. Made of Clay is a trad-friendly route with three bolts strategically fixed, helping climbers negotiate three distinct crux sections spaced evenly along the pitch. Each crux requires a mix of technical smearing, aggressive finger placements, and steady body positioning, pushing your limits on sustained 5.10d moves without respite. The route’s character balances raw grit with calculated protection: the fixed hardware provides essential security while still demanding traditional gear skills and good anchor management. From the top, the rap station doubles as a cleaning anchor for other climbs on Gumby’s Wall, offering both safety and convenience for return descents. Seasonally, the route thrives in late spring through early fall when the granite dries quickly and the Pacific Northwest climate yields stable weather windows. For climbers visiting Squamish, Made of Clay delivers a focused, straightforward challenge with enough technical intrigue to satisfy those looking to sharpen their trad endurance and bolt-clipping precision. This climb invites a blend of mental grit, strategic gear placement, and respect for the natural lines of the rock, making it a valuable addition to the Smoke Bluffs repertoire for intermediate to advanced climbers seeking quality moderate trad climbs in a spectacular setting.
Pay close attention to the fixed hardware condition and back up all clips where possible. The shallow corner at the top demands cautious movement to avoid falls on poorly protected terrain. Weather can shift quickly in Squamish, so be prepared for slick holds and wet rock after rain.
Start early to catch morning light and avoid afternoon rain showers common in Squamish.
Bring a full trad rack with cams in the small to medium range for tricky placements between bolts.
Wear sticky shoes suited for granite friction to maximize foothold security on smears.
Check weather reports closely; granite can become slippery after even light drizzle.
Standard trad rack combined with three fixed bolts unlocks the key cruxes, providing both safety and flow. Use the rap station at the top for efficient cleaning and descent.
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