5.10c, Sport
Squamish
British Columbia ,Canada
"Plumbers Crack presents a crisp 65-foot sport climb on Squamish’s Whisky Jack Wall, blending precise face climbing with a subtle crack. Perfect for climbers at 5.10c looking for a reliable, well-bolted route tucked in a serene forest edge."
Plumbers Crack invites climbers to engage with a compact but thoroughly satisfying sport route just up the Sea to Sky corridor, a stretch famed for its rugged granite and world-class granite face settings. Sitting on the Whisky Jack Wall within the Chek area, the route stretches 65 feet of concentrated vertical movement punctuated by smooth, angular plates and a striking crack that gently veers left near the top. The beauty here lies in its straightforward yet demanding nature: climbers traverse a well-protected line featuring nine well-spaced bolts, ensuring a secure ascent with little room for hesitation.
The granite feels cool and firm beneath your hands, its textured surfaces offering a subtle contrast between polished plates and gritty crack edges. As you move upward, the wall’s character changes, shifting into smear and face climbing that challenge balance and footwork just as much as finger strength. The final section asks you to deke left, a maneuver that rewards careful route-reading and precise body control.
Accessing Whisky Jack is relatively simple for those familiar with the Sea to Sky corridor between Squamish and Whistler. The approach is short, allowing climbers to spend more energy on climbing and less on the trek in. The immediate area hums with the quiet pulse of coastal forest—towering evergreens frame the base, and the occasional call of a bird adds a touch of wilderness to the otherwise urban-proximate setting.
Plumbers Crack is best suited for climbers comfortable around the 5.10c level who want a solid pitch that blends technical face climbing with a modest crack feature. The route’s protection rating and style make it a dependable choice for those sharpening their sport climbing techniques or touring the more accessible walls of Chek. Expect moderate sun exposure throughout the day, so early mornings or late afternoons provide cooler, grippier conditions.
Although this line is relatively short and contained to a single pitch, it offers a thorough experience of Squamish’s granite style: clean, direct, and just challenging enough to stay engaging. With only three recorded votes averaging 2.7 stars, it remains somewhat under the radar, giving adventurous climbers a chance to enjoy a less crowded route while still tapping into the quality granite climbing that defines the region.
Planning your climb on Plumbers Crack benefits from solid preparation—bring climbing shoes that excel on both cracks and slick slabs, maintain steady hydration given the day's exposure, and watch conditions for sudden dampness after rain common to coastal environments. The climb’s bolts require no additional gear, but a quick glance at your quickdraws and locking carabiners ensures your day on the wall remains smooth. For descent, rappelling is straightforward, relying on fixed anchors with minimal walk-off, allowing you to descend swiftly and safely.
This route exemplifies a practical balance of adventure and approachability—inviting those ready to test their precision and power in a classic, no-frills style experience nestled among some of British Columbia’s finest rock. Whether you’re stopping over en route to Whistler or exploring Squamish’s rich climbing offerings, Plumbers Crack provides a sharp, focused climb that leaves no moment wasted.
While the bolts are in good condition, be aware that the route’s final leftward movement presents a subtle technical crux; climbers should stay mindful of foot placements and maintain control. Weather can affect the rock’s friction, so avoid this climb when wet to reduce slipping hazards.
Approach is short and well-marked from Whiskey Jack parking area.
Early morning climbs avoid midday sun and keep the rock grippy.
Watch for damp patches after coastal rain, especially on shaded sections.
Bring hydration and snacks; the route is short but the surroundings invite lingering.
Nine bolts ensure solid protection throughout the route. No additional trad gear is required, but bring quickdraws to clip efficiently. Climbing shoes suited for both face and crack climbing are recommended.
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