"Predator challenges climbers with a precise slab ascent featuring delicate footwork and subtle gear placements. This single-pitch route at Burgers and Fries blends straightforward climbing with thoughtful protection, perfect for those honing their slab skills in the heart of The Smoke Bluffs."
Predator presents a sharp reminder that even straightforward single-pitch climbs can challenge your judgment and finesse. Situated on the far right edge of a broad slab face within the Burgers and Fries sector of The Smoke Bluffs, this route offers a unique blend of slab climbing with subtle crack options for protection. The rock here feels alive—smooth yet textured—inviting steady footwork and deliberate moves. Though the crack feature appears almost reluctant to assert itself, it becomes your critical lifeline once you commit, teasing you with uncertain starts before offering reliable placements.
The approach sets the tone for the climb: a brief stroll through coarse gravel paths with occasional winds sweeping through the surrounding pines. The air carries the fresh scent of Douglas fir and cedar, grounding you in the wild Pacific Northwest atmosphere. The positioning of the slab faces west, catching afternoon sun, which warms the rock and enhances friction—a boon for those climbing in cooler weather.
For climbers eyeing Predator, preparation matters. Small gear placements dominate the protection game, making a rack of micro cams and tiny nuts essential. A single bolt near the top provides a confident anchor but don’t rely solely on it. This route rewards patience in gear selection, encouraging a rhythm of slow, tested placements rather than quick clipping. The 5.10c rating is firm but approachable, with a crux centered around balancing on marginal holds and confidently entering the barely-there crack system.
The climb’s brevity means it fits perfectly into a day of exploring the expansive Smoke Bluffs area, with plenty of additional climbs nearby to round out your outing. After topping out, the descent is easy—a short walk off the slab back to the main trail. Until sunset, the rock remains warm enough for a solid finish without rushing.
For those venturing here, attention to footwear is key: sticky rubber that excels on slab will bolster your edge confidence. Hydration is light but important; bring at least a liter as the sun exposure can dry you out faster than expected. Start mid-morning to early afternoon to catch the ideal light and warmth. Quiet winds often sweep through, so layering a light windbreaker might be prudent. From the nearby town of Squamish, access to this route is straightforward but parking fills quickly on sunny days—arriving early pays off.
Predator offers a straightforward test of slab technique and gear finesse, wrapped in a Pacific Northwest setting where nature seems to watch your every move. It asks for focus, respect for subtle holds, and patience with protection placements, rewarding climbers with satisfying movement and a taste of The Smoke Bluffs’ rugged charm.
The slab surface can be slick in wet conditions, so avoid climbing after rain. Protection requires careful placement of tiny gear—ensure each piece is solid before committing to moves, as protection is sparse and the crack is not clearly defined at the start.
Arrive early to secure parking as lots fill quickly on sunny days.
Wear sticky rubber shoes optimized for slab climbing to maximize foothold grip.
Start climbing mid-morning to early afternoon to benefit from sun-warmed rock.
Bring a light windbreaker to stay comfortable with Pacific Northwest breezes.
Bring a standard small gear rack with an emphasis on micro cams and tiny nuts; a single bolt near the top anchors the route. Focus on precise gear placements along the subtle crack on the right side of the slab.
Upload your photos of Predator and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.