Serra-Stilletto Group Climbing Guide - Remote Granite Spires in British Columbia

Tatla Lake, British Columbia
granite
alpine
multi-pitch
remote
glacier approach
trad gear
exposed
high elevation
Length: 11500 ft
Type: Alpine
Stars
Pitches
multi-pitch
Protected Place
Waddington Range, British Columbia
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"The Serra-Stilletto Group in British Columbia challenges climbers with remote granite spires rising above Tiedemann Glacier. Known for demanding approaches and top-tier alpine routes like the South Ridge, this location delivers a stunning blend of adventure and wilderness for seasoned mountaineers."

Serra-Stilletto Group Climbing Guide - Remote Granite Spires in British Columbia

Rising sharply above the Tiedemann Glacier in British Columbia, the Serra-Stilletto Group offers climbers a rare opportunity to engage with some of North America's most challenging granite spires. These peaks stand at an elevation of around 11,500 feet, presenting an alpine environment that is as demanding as it is rewarding. The remote location ensures that climbers must prepare for an expedition more than a simple day trip, with the approach and weather requiring careful planning.

Accessing the Serra-Stilletto Group is a journey in itself. A demanding bushwhack through dense forest leads to the expansive Tiedemann Glacier, a route that requires both endurance and navigational skill. Most climbing parties opt for a more efficient approach by hiring White Saddle Air Services, launching from Bluff Lake near Tatla Lake. Sharing a helicopter ride with others reduces the cost significantly and saves valuable time, setting the stage for multiple days of high-quality climbing in this outstanding wilderness.

The climbing vibe here is serious alpine granite—steep, clean rock with exposure that compels respect. The group features some of the continent's toughest summits, attracting climbers equipped for rugged, multi-pitch adventures in remote high country. One standout classic climb is the South Ridge (5.9), offering a route that balances technical challenges with notable exposure. This climb is rated 4.5 stars by the climbing community, highlighting its quality and appeal.

Weather in the Coast Mountains can be unpredictable, making it crucial to select your climbing window carefully. The prime season generally spans the summer months when precipitation drops and temperatures stabilize, though conditions remain alpine and swiftly variable. Expect crisp mornings with warm afternoon sun on granite faces angled towards the sun’s path, perfect for warming up gear and hands before pushing upward.

Gear selection should reflect the seriousness of this alpine zone: climbers will want a comprehensive rack capable of handling crack systems typical of granite spires, with emphasis on protection suitable for long pitches and variable terrain. While there’s no direct mention of fixed anchors or bolts, alpine trad skills and solid route-finding are essential. Prepare for both glacier travel and vertical rock with equipment accordingly.

The natural setting here demands respect for remote wilderness safety. Avalanches and crevasse dangers linger into the early season, and the long approach can test even fit parties. Descent options will vary by route, often involving rappels or careful downclimbs; having a clear plan and familiarity with alpine descent techniques is indispensable.

In all, the Serra-Stilletto Group delivers an intense alpine climbing experience for those seeking powerful granite with a serious edge. The area is perfect for seasoned climbers ready to embrace long approaches, high elevation, and the thrill of remote wilderness. Each summit rewards adventurers with sweeping views of the Coast Mountains’ wild landscape and the exhilaration of standing on remote granite pinnacles few have touched.

For climbers looking to deepen their journey, the broader Waddington Range in the Coast Mountains offers a distinctive setting defined by massive granite walls and glacial corridors. The Serra-Stilletto Group is not just about the climbs—it’s about the full wilderness experience, from the rugged approach to the soaring peaks above the Tiedemann Glacier.

Climber Safety

Be prepared for a long and challenging approach involving bushwhacking and glacier travel. Weather changes rapidly in the Coast Mountains; always carry appropriate gear and plan for alpine hazards including crevasses and unstable rock. Descent routes are technical and may require multiple rappels or careful downclimbing.

Area Details

TypeAlpine
Pitchesmulti-pitch
Length11500 feet

Local Tips

Hire White Saddle Air Services from Bluff Lake to save several days and reduce approach difficulty.

Plan climbs in summer months for the most stable weather and less precipitation.

Prepare for bushwhacking and glacier travel on the approach; no established trails.

Bring equipment for rappels and downclimbing, as descents vary and may require technical skill.

Area Rating

Quality
Consensus:The South Ridge at 5.9 represents the upper moderate grade classic in this area, providing challenging alpine granite climbing with significant exposure. The grading is consistent with stiff alpine routes where technical ability and fitness are tested by the approach and altitude. Climbers familiar with Coast Mountains trad climbing will find the grades appropriately demanding but not sandbagged.

Gear Requirements

A comprehensive alpine rack is needed for crack climbing and multi-pitch routes. Glacier travel equipment is essential for the approach. No fixed anchors are confirmed, so solid trad placements and route-finding skills are critical.

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Tags

granite
alpine
multi-pitch
remote
glacier approach
trad gear
exposed
high elevation