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Overlaps: Squamish’s Slab Challenge with a Sporty Edge

Squamish, Canada
slab
sport climbing
single pitch
technical moves
afternoon sun
solid rock
Length: 45 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Overlaps
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Overlaps offers a sharp slab challenge in Squamish’s Malamute area, combining delicate footwork with confident clipping over five bolts. Though short, this 5.10+ route blends mental focus with solid rock and an inviting position for afternoon ascents."

Overlaps: Squamish’s Slab Challenge with a Sporty Edge

Overlaps delivers a compact but engaging ascent tucked into the rugged atmosphere of Squamish’s legendary climbing scene. This brief, 45-foot sport route demands precision from the outset, starting with a series of delicate slab moves that test your footwork and balance before easing into smoother climbing that threads rightward beneath a compelling overhang. The rock here is solid—reliable and grippy—making every hold feel earned as you navigate the wall. While it might not be the crown jewel of Blue Steel’s offerings, Overlaps rewards those who seek a technical challenge wrapped in an accessible package, perfect for warming up or sharpening slab skills.

Approaching the climb, you’ll find yourself in a compact section of the Malamute area, a short hike from Squamish’s pulse but remote enough to shake off the city’s buzz. The route’s five bolts offer straightforward protection but do demand controlled movement to avoid hang-dogging through the more tenuous sections. Climbers will find a grade of 5.10+ PG13, reflecting not just the physical demands but a mental game to master slab balance over runouts.

The setting offers more than just climbing—it’s a quiet fragment of British Columbia wilderness with crisp mountain air and views edging towards the coastal fjords. The wall faces west, catching afternoon sun that warms the rock into the evening, making it a solid option for afternoon sessions after a morning outdoors elsewhere.

Gear-wise, five bolts mean sport gear only: quickdraws and maybe a light rack for comfort—no trad placements needed here. The anchor is reliable and welcoming, perfect for a smooth top-rope setup or clean lowers. The approach is short and clear, mostly forest trail with a mild incline, ensuring your focus stays on the climb. Descending is a simple two-bolt rappel into scrub and trees, so be cautious with rope drag.

For anyone drawn to Squamish’s varied climbing flavors, Overlaps presents a focused slab test wrapped in approachable sport climbing, worthy of a spot in your day’s line-up.

Climber Safety

While the bolts are solid, the slab sections leave little room for error—slips can lead to longer falls. The rappel descent passes through brush, so watch out for potential rope snagging and ensure your anchor is properly set.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length45 feet

Local Tips

Stick to precise foot placements during slab moves to maintain control.

Approach via the Malamute trail; it’s short but expect some uneven terrain.

Afternoon sun warms the face late in the day—best time for climbing.

Double-check your rappel setup; vegetation below can cause rope drag.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10+ PG13
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.10+ with a PG13 caution, Overlaps demands confident slab climbing with a crux that feels stiff for its length. The spacing between bolts challenges mental toughness more than pure climbing endurance and compares well with other local sport routes that reward precise balance without overhanging power moves.

Gear Requirements

The route is sport protected with five fixed bolts, requiring a standard rack of quickdraws. No traditional gear placements are necessary, and the anchor is secure for rappelling or lowering.

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Tags

slab
sport climbing
single pitch
technical moves
afternoon sun
solid rock