Side Street at Crag X offers a compelling blend of technical finger jams and accessible hands/fist cracks set against the stark rock walls of The Smoke Bluffs in Squamish, British Columbia. This single-pitch route stretches 115 feet and starts with a right-facing dihedral, easing the climber into the climb's rhythm before transitioning right into a short but satisfying hands/fist crack nicknamed "the pie." For climbers looking for a full challenge, Side Street extends beyond what’s often called Piece of Pie, adding a more demanding upper section with a discontinuous finger crack that tests precision and patience.

The first part of the climb sits comfortably at 5.8, a warm-up that invites exploration of the rock’s texture and offers secure stances at well-placed holds. Once past the anchors, the route continues upward through a short, steep section where the finger crack narrows and requires steady hand placements and good footwork. This technical stretch separates confident crack climbers from the rest and rewards those who thrive on delicate jams before the crack finally eases off, allowing a smooth finish to the belay station.

Protection on Side Street is straightforward but thorough. The recommended rack involves doubles in small to medium cams from sizes 0.2 to 0.75, along with nuts for smaller placements. Singles in the larger sizes (1-4) provide additional security, though experienced climbers comfortable with fist and hands jams in the 5.7 range might skip some of the larger cams for a lighter rack. The rock is generally solid, but placing gear in the discontinuous finger crack demands attention to detail.

Squamish’s coastal climate plays a role in the climb’s experience. The Smoke Bluffs sit at a convenient distance from town, accessible via well-trodden trails that wind through patches of pine and cedar. The area is known for its reliable friction, even in damp conditions, but it’s best to avoid climbing after heavy rain to preserve gear placements and maintain safety. Side Street faces mainly southeast, receiving morning sun and shaded relief by afternoon, making early starts ideal for stable conditions and clearer holds.

Approaching Side Street involves a brisk 15-20 minute hike from the main parking area at The Smoke Bluffs, following clear signage through forested paths with occasional glimpses of higher peaks. The approach is manageable and a good warm-up, though the last segment requires careful footing on rocky terrain near the base.

Descent is straightforward with a single rappel from the anchors back to the ground or a careful downclimb for those comfortable with exposed moves. Climbers are advised to double-check anchor setup and rock conditions when planning their descent, as some loose rock can be encountered near the belay station.

Side Street is a solid trad pitch suited for those eager to push into moderate cracks with a bit of sustained finger work. Its blend of accessible crack climbing, with a technical upper portion, makes it appealing to a wide range of climbers seeking to experience Squamish’s crack climbing scene in a setting that balances adventure with thoughtful protection and approach. Whether extending a Piece of Pie or climbing Side Street outright, expect a tactile connection with granite, punctuated by moments that demand precision and composure on seemingly straightforward terrain.