Out of the Darkness stands as a striking introduction to the demanding 5.12a realm, set on Squamish’s iconic Monastery Wall—a vertical playground carved into the Sea to Sky corridor linking Vancouver to Whistler. This sport climb packs a technical punch within its single 50-foot pitch, offering a compact but intense challenge for those ready to tackle a first 12a grade.

The route’s opening invites climbers into a tight dihedral where a substantial right-facing rail dominates the corner. Here, your hands find secure purchase, giving a solid initial groove that sets the tone for what follows. Moving upward, you follow the dihedral’s natural line, negotiating balance and precision as the rock shifts from diagonal edges to a clean vertical face. Positive holds and confident foot placements ease the progression along a broad left-arching rail, demanding careful sequencing but rewarding steady rhythm.

The final sequence draws close attention. These tricky moves to the anchor require hold-finding skills and practiced beta to conquer, yet the route balances difficulty with approachable clipping stances and well-earned rests. It’s a route that both tests and teaches, making it an ideal step into harder sport climbing grades for eager climbers.

Located within a climbing area that thrives with vibrant crags amid towering granite, Out of the Darkness benefits from Squamish’s moderate weather and well-maintained approach trails. The accessibility via the Sea to Sky corridor places world-class climbing within reach, with reliable gear already in place—permadraws supplemented by an additional quickdraw at the first bolt streamline the lead experience.

This corridor sees varied conditions across seasons but tends to favor climbs in spring through fall when rain lets up and temperatures remain moderate. Morning ascents catch the wall in gentle shade, offering respite from afternoon heat, while late-day light casts rugged shadows that enhance the texture of the rock face.

For climbers aiming to push into 5.12 territory, Out of the Darkness delivers both a physical and mental test within a compact vertical frame. Its blend of technical moves, solid protection, and strategic rests build a rewarding rhythm and a tangible sense of accomplishment. Embarking here is as much about refining movement and hold-reading as it is about raw power—a thoughtful challenge amid one of Canada’s premier climbing landscapes.