For climbers looking to break away from the everyday and immerse themselves in the rugged charm of Squamish's renowned Smoke Bluffs, Old Age offers a focused, engaging trad climb that demands both finesse and composure. This single-pitch route carves a clear corner feature roughly halfway up the wall, treated with steep rock that challenges your technique without overwhelming your sense of flow. The movement requires thoughtful positioning and steady breathing, especially as you navigate through the more demanding sections that test balance and finger strength. Along the way, generous rests provide vital moments to shake out tired forearms and gather strength for the crux that lies ahead.

Situated in the Wall Area, Old Age presents roughly 100 feet of vertical travel that feels both accessible and rewarding, packing enough interest to hold the attention of climbers seeking a solid 5.9 trad experience. Protection is straightforward—a single set of wires and cams up to a #3 Camalot covers the steep corner well, with a reliable two-bolt anchor waiting at the top to smooth the transition from climb to rappel or descent.

The approach to this route is practical and well-trodden, threading through the Smoke Bluffs, a climbing zone famed for its granite walls and friendly local community. The environment hums with the sound of nearby forest life and the occasional hum of traffic from Squamish artfully balanced by the serenity of the mountain air. On warm days, the rock radiates heat, inviting a focused approach to hydration and footing on sun-exposed patches.

This climb’s character lies in the interplay between steady rhythm and brief bursts of technical moves. It rewards those who come prepared with solid trad gear, patience, and an eye for clean placements, promising a satisfying sense of accomplishment when you clip into the two-bolt anchor and look back over the granite you’ve mastered.

Be sure to time your climb to avoid the midday sun; morning and late afternoon provide cooler conditions and longer shadows that temper the rock’s heat. The Smoke Bluffs act as a practical training ground and an inviting playground for intermediate climbers transitioning into more challenging multi-pitch routes in Squamish's epic climbing landscape.

Beyond the climb itself, respect the local ethos: keep the area clean, pack out your gear, and be aware of seasonal restrictions to protect this cherished climbing environment. Old Age stands as a focused excursion that captures the essence of granite climbing in British Columbia—a well-rounded route that balances approachable technicality with the raw, natural pulse of one of Canada’s premier outdoor climbing hubs.