HomeClimbingThe Monatude

The Monatude: A Sharp Sport Climb in Squamish's Electric Avenue

Squamish, Canada
sport climbing
technical slab
undercling start
bulge moves
single pitch
Electric Avenue
Squamish
Length: 80 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
The Monatude
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"The Monatude delivers a tight, demanding 80-foot pitch in Squamish’s Electric Avenue sector. Featuring a bold undercling start, a bulging mid-section, and a sustaining technical slab, this sport climb rewards precise technique and confident footwork."

The Monatude: A Sharp Sport Climb in Squamish's Electric Avenue

The Monatude presents a compact yet intense challenge in the heart of Squamish’s renowned Electric Avenue sector, part of the Sea to Sky corridor that stretches toward Whistler. This single-pitch, 80-foot route demands focused technique from the start, beginning beneath a commanding undercling that dares climbers to commit. The initial move is a precise, tension-filled maneuver requiring a solid grip and steady balance to gain the hold beneath the undercling. From here, the route arcs over a bulge where well-placed bolts guide you along large, reliable holds on the left side, offering a rhythm that rewards careful sequencing and control.

Beyond the bulge, the climb unfolds into a steep, technical slab that tests friction mastery. The rock here grits against fingertips and climbing shoes, begging for measured footwork and feathery pressure. The varied texture offers enough grip to push confidently upward, but any lapse in focus might send you off balance. The final stretch transitions to a gentler slab angle where movement relaxes but demands sustained attention until the anchors crown the top.

Electric Avenue thrives under the watchful presence of towering Douglas firs and the faint hum of the distant highway, merging nature’s calm with the pulse of adventure. Climbers should prepare to encounter crisp granite grain, occasionally smoothed to glass-like friction, challenging both technique and nerve. The route’s bolster of fixed bolts alleviates protection concerns, making it a reliable pick for those sharpening their sport climbing skills or those hunting for a precise 5.10d edge within Squamish’s diverse climbing palette.

Approaching The Monatude, the trail weaves through lightly forested terrain marked by sharp turns and firm footing, taking roughly 10 to 15 minutes from the parking area. Early starts ensure cooler rock and quieter surroundings, especially before the mid-afternoon sun penetrates the face. Weather can quickly shift in this coastal mountain environment, so layering and waterproof shells are recommended.

In terms of gear, sport climbers should bring a standard rack of quickdraws and a well-reviewed rope of 60 meters or longer to accommodate the route and potential rappels. Reliable climbing shoes with aggressive edging capabilities will enhance grip on the technical slabs. Hydration is vital here, considering the physical precision required and moderate exposure, so pack fluids accordingly.

With its judicious mix of powerful moves, technical finesse, and straightforward protection, The Monatude is an essential climb that showcases Squamish’s unique balance between rugged wilderness and accessible alpine adventure. It invites climbers to engage deeply with the rock beneath their hands, offering a pure and focused experience that both thrills and educates.

Climber Safety

While the fixed bolt protection is solid, the technical slab above requires careful foot placements as falls can lead to sliding on the coarse granite. The approach trail has some loose sections, so take care when arriving or departing, especially after rain.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length80 feet

Local Tips

Start early to climb on cooler rock, avoiding afternoon sun heating the slab.

Wear shoes with aggressive edging to maximize friction on the steep slab sections.

Bring a light rain shell; coastal weather shifts rapidly even in summer.

Use the established trail; footing can get slippery with loose rock near the base.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10d
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.10d, The Monatude offers a challenging but fair step up for climbers comfortable on vertical to slightly overhung terrain. The undercling start and bulge section create a short but intense crux that demands strength and precision. Compared to nearby routes in Electric Avenue, this climb leans more into technical slab finesse rather than pure power, making it a well-rounded benchmark route for local sport climbers.

Gear Requirements

Standard sport climbing rack with quickdraws suffices here. The bolts are well-spaced and reliable, so focus your gear on precise footwork and light protection setup. A 60m rope is recommended for comfortable clipping and possible rappel.

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Tags

sport climbing
technical slab
undercling start
bulge moves
single pitch
Electric Avenue
Squamish