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Shake & Bake at Hassler Crag: A Compact Trad Classic in Northern BC

Hassler, Canada
hand crack
exposed face
top-roping friendly
single pitch
traditional protection
Length: 70 ft
Type: Trad, TR
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Shake & Bake
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Shake & Bake delivers a sharp 70-foot trad climb that mixes clean parallel cracks with textured face moves. Perfectly tailored for trad enthusiasts seeking an accessible 5.9 challenge amid Northern British Columbia’s peaceful wilderness."

Shake & Bake at Hassler Crag: A Compact Trad Classic in Northern BC

Shake & Bake unfolds across a compact 70-foot line at Hassler Crag, offering climbers a solid taste of Northern British Columbia’s rugged character. This single-pitch route demands attention right from the start, where a detached flake sets the tone with a bit of exposure before easing into parallel twin cracks that climb steadily toward the summit. The climb moves from a textured face section to generous hand cracks, inviting you to engage both fingers and feet with a variety of holds and placements.

As you ascend, the rock’s lichen-speckled surface adds subtle texture and reminds you this wall has weathered many seasons. The twin cracks stand out like inviting seams—offering protection placements up to three inches and peppered with friendly flakes for rest or quick gear. Despite a slight slabby feel near the top, the route stays approachable, making it an excellent introduction to 5.9 Trad climbing in the region.

Hassler Crag itself sits amid the wild sprawl of Northern British Columbia, far from urban clamor. The area’s quiet heightens the connection to the rock and the crisp mountain air, where the scent of pine and distant fir forests oil your focus. The approach trail is straightforward but requires preparedness for typical backcountry conditions—expect a short trek through mixed forests and uneven ground.

Shake & Bake’s two top-anchored bolts provide security for trad leads as well as the option for top-rope practicing, making it versatile for climbers building confidence or refining technique. Be ready with a rack that covers cams up to three inches, optimizing your protection options through the varied crack widths.

Climbers praise this route for its blend of sustained climbing and protection opportunities that encourage relaxed yet attentive movement. It’s a rewarding climb that feels at home within Hassler Crag’s broader mosaic of trad routes, delivering a valuable experience without overwhelming commitment. Whether it’s your third trad lead or your first crack climb of the season, Shake & Bake offers a manageable step into Northern BC’s high country climbing, crowned by satisfying exposure and a clean finish to the top.

Prepare for sudden shifts in weather typical of the region by carrying layers, and start your climb mid-morning when sunlight hits the wall but leaves the base shaded and cool. Don’t underestimate the approach and descent; solid footwear and hydration are key companions. This climb demands respect but promises fun, flow, and an inspiring connection to one of British Columbia’s quieter climbing corners.

Climber Safety

Watch your foot placements on the slab near the top, as lichen and smoother rock create a moderate slip risk. The two top bolts are reliable but always double-check all gear placements given the route’s mixed flake and crack protection. Seasonal weather shifts demand layered clothing and alertness on approach trails.

Route Details

TypeTrad, TR
Pitches1
Length70 feet

Local Tips

Start climbs mid-morning to catch ideal lighting and cooler base temperatures.

Wear shoes with sticky rubber to handle subtle slab sections near the top.

Carry layered clothing to adapt to northern BC’s quick weather changes.

Hydrate sufficiently and prepare for a short approach through mixed forest terrain.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9 rating on Shake & Bake feels true to its style—solid, moderately sustained crack climbing with a manageable crux on the exposed face section. It’s neither sandbagged nor soft; climbers will find it a balanced introduction to the area’s trad routes and a good opportunity to build crack climbing confidence before tackling longer multi-pitch challenges nearby.

Gear Requirements

Bring a full trad rack with cams ranging up to 3 inches. The route features two top-anchored bolts for secure rappels or top-rope setup. Plenty of natural protection in twin cracks and flakes make gear placement straightforward.

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Tags

hand crack
exposed face
top-roping friendly
single pitch
traditional protection