Rising sharply against the rugged skyline of McQuirks Mountain, Salad Fingers offers climbers an engaging two-pitch trad route that tests both technique and mental focus on unforgiving granite. Starting on the first pitch, climbers encounter sustained movement along sheer slabs and into a demanding dihedral known locally as the Fifty Mission. This section demands precise footwork and steady hands as the granite’s texture is unforgiving, rewarding those who maintain focus with clean, confident moves. The climb then transitions into a traverse toward a diagonal crack, which forms the second crux and challenges climbers with awkward body positioning and powerful jams. A well-placed bolt eases the psychological weight through this smooth but blank section, allowing climbers to recompose before closing in on the anchors at 170 feet.

Combining Salad Fingers with adjacent routes such as Emerald City or the first pitch of Up Yours creates a longer, three-pitch adventure full of authentic granite climbing. The rock is bullet hard, offering solid friction but demanding clutch gear placements, which makes protection as much a mental game as physical. Expect to place small nuts and cams up to three inches, doubling up on smaller pieces to stay secure through the most intense sections.

The approach to Salad Fingers is straightforward but requires attention through the rugged terrain of X Wall. The alpine forest around McQuirks Mountain presses in close, with the sharp pine needles underfoot and brisk breezes that dare you onward. While the route doesn't boast overwhelming exposure, its technical demands and high-quality rock attract climbers looking for focused trad climbing with a bit of a challenge.

The area benefits from a northern exposure, offering cooler climbing conditions in the afternoon and protection from direct sun in warmer months. Descending is manageable via a series of two rappels from the anchor stations, but climbers should be prepared for precise rope management and double-checking anchor security before committing.

This route, rated 5.10c, packs a punch for climbers looking to push their trad skills on solid granite with thoughtful protection. Particularly for those eager to build endurance and master crack climbing techniques, Salad Fingers provides an immersive experience that tests footing, gear placement, and mental stamina. If you’re targeting McQuirks Mountain, this climb is a must-add to your itinerary—rewarding those who respect its demands with pure vertical satisfaction against the vast Canadian wilderness.