"The Regular Route on The Camel is a blend of accessible alpine scrambling and easy trad climbing along a narrow, exposed ridge. Ideal for intermediate climbers, it offers a quick but thrilling taste of the North Shore’s rugged granite with minimal gear required."
Tracing the spine of The Camel, the Regular Route carves a clear path up this iconic ridge, offering an accessible yet engaging alpine climb on British Columbia’s North Shore. This route stretches just over 60 feet, combining stretches of exposed fourth-class scrambling with brief, straightforward fifth-class moves that demand a steady foothold but not a full-on technical push. The granite here has a solid, weathered texture that invites confident steps and strategic handholds, balancing the exhilaration of exposure with manageable terrain for intermediate climbers aiming to sharpen their alpine footwork.
The ridge itself feels alive, with the wind sweeping relentlessly across its narrow crest, almost daring you to keep your balance. Around you, ancient evergreens frame distant city views and the shimmering waters beyond Vancouver, while sharp granite edges catch the sunlight, casting defined shadows that mark your progress upward. Climbers often use this route as a warm-up or a finishing ascent to the more difficult Widowmaker Arete nearby, appreciating its straightforward style that still carries the undeniable thrill of alpine exposure.
Protection on this route is minimal, relying primarily on small gear placements or even none at all, which reinforces the need for cautious movement and solid route-finding skills. The climb is short but demands attention to detail—foot placement, balance, and a calm approach to the exposed sections ensure safety and success. Due to its proximity and ease compared to neighboring routes, it’s a favored choice for climbers easing into North Shore trad climbing or those looking to set up top ropes for friends on more demanding lines.
Approaching The Camel’s Regular Route involves a sharp transition from dense forest trails to the open rocky outcrop where nature stands bare and commanding. The trailhead is accessible within a reasonable hike, rewarding climbers with a swift but steady ascent that carries them from shaded woods to the full glare of the ridge’s wind-exposed crest. Plan your climb for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun beating down on the granite, and pack layers to handle sudden weather changes common at this elevation.
This route demands solid footwear offering reliable friction, hydration to counter the dry ridge winds, and a head for heights more than a need for heavy technical gear. When conditions are clear and the rock dry, the Regular Route on The Camel offers a taste of classic North Shore alpine climbing — straightforward, exposed, and intensely rewarding.
Watch your footing on the exposed ridge sections; the rock is solid but narrow edges leave little room for error. Weather can shift quickly, so be prepared for strong winds and cooling temperatures once you leave the forest behind.
Start early to avoid the midday sun on the exposed ridge.
Wear shoes with strong friction soles for secure footing on rock slabs.
Bring layers as winds can chill rapidly once above the treeline.
Use this route to set up top ropes for nearby harder climbs like Widowmaker Arete.
A small rack is sufficient for protection, though many sections can be confidently scrambled without gear. Suitable for those comfortable with light trad placement or scrambling exposure.
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