"A concise yet demanding 5.9 sport climb in the heart of Sea to Sky, The Cat Came Back challenges climbers with a distinctive roof and generous pockets on solid Nordic Rock granite. Perfect for those seeking a sharp, focused route with reliable protection."
The Cat Came Back offers a striking introduction to sport climbs within the Sea to Sky region, carving a direct line through the rugged Nordic Rock walls near Squamish. This 36-foot route demands attention with its crisp 5.9 difficulty and a standout roof feature that challengingly punctuates the ascent. As you approach the base, the surrounding rock rises sharply, its granite surface etched with generous pockets that invite both confident jugs and calculated moves. The route’s bolt line threads unapologetically through the center of the crag, making for a clear, bold path where protection is straightforward yet requires trust in well-placed hardware.
The climb’s texture is a playground of hand-sized holds that feel alive under your fingertips, offering both security and the need for precise footwork. The roof section forces you into a brief battle with gravity, demanding a combination of power and technique, rewarding those who can unlock the rhythm. Beyond the physical challenge, the environment frames your ascent with crisp mountain air and distant views hinting at the vast wilderness of British Columbia’s Sea to Sky corridor.
Getting here is part of the preparation: the Nordic Rock sector is known for solid granite and clear bolt lines, making it a reliable choice for climbers seeking a well-protected yet engaging 5.9. While the climb itself is short, its intensity leaves a lasting impression, ideal for those refining their sport climbing skills or looking for a challenging warm-up before tackling longer routes nearby.
Whether you’re visiting from Squamish or making the trek from Whistler, plan to arrive with sturdy climbing shoes tuned for granite friction and bring a quickdraw or two matched to the four bolt anchors. Hydration remains paramount—carry water and snacks to recharge before or after your climb. Timing your visit in the morning maximizes shade and keeps the holds from warming too quickly under the sun’s weight, particularly in warmer months.
In all, The Cat Came Back invites climbers to push at their edge with a clear, technical route that combines the thrill of a roof crack with the satisfaction of smooth, confident movement on secure rock. It’s a small but potent section of the greater Sea to Sky climbing scene, accessible and rewarding in equal measure.
The roof section demands focused clipping and body positioning. Falls here can swing, so maintain controlled movement and ensure draws are clipped correctly. Also, the rock below the bolts is sound on dry days but can be slick after rain—check conditions prior to climbing.
Approach in the early morning for cooler rock and shade on the roof.
Watch your feet on the slab sections leading to the roof – slippery when wet.
Hydrate well before and after the climb; the Sun can heat the base area quickly.
Double-check your quickdraws before leading; bolts are well-placed but falling on the roof section requires confidence.
Four bolts provide solid protection along a clean bolt line. Quickdraws fitting 70-80 cm extenders work well. Bring a standard sport rack and shoes with excellent grip to handle the granite’s texture.
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