"A short but fierce climb just left of a stark arete, The Stupidity of It All offers a concentrated test of trad skills along the Sea to Sky corridor. With a tight 90-foot pitch of technical face cracks and a commanding ridge, it’s a must for advanced leaders seeking a bold challenge."
The Stupidity of It All drops you into the rugged wilderness above Cat Lake, a short paddle away from the bustling Sea to Sky corridor linking Squamish and Whistler. This single-pitch trad route holds a sharp edge of challenge and exposure, beginning just left of a prominent arete and wrapping around its jagged spine. The climb demands steady hands and confident feet as you navigate the arete’s exposed ridgeline before shifting onto face cracks to seal the ascent. British Columbia’s north coast delivers cool mountain air and dense forest shadows that contrast against the bare rock under your fingertips. The stone here feels alive—weathered yet solid, testing your protection placements while the nearby waves of pine whisper encouragement.
At 90 feet, this route is deceptively compact but loaded with technical moves that require precise gear management and focus. Protection consists primarily of bolts, offering reliable anchors amidst the play between natural cracks and face holds, but placing your own trad gear complements the fixed hardware for a secure ascent. Climbers will appreciate the route’s direct approach and honest grading at 5.11d, making it a demanding test for advanced leaders ready to handle both physical strain and mental focus.
Access to The Stupidity of It All begins with a short trek from Cat Lake, situated roughly midway between Squamish and Whistler. The approach trail winds through a lush canopy, the ground carpeted with moss and fallen needles, adding a soft contrast to the crag’s stark granite walls. The setting sun filters through branches in the late afternoon, lending a golden glow and cooling the rock, perfect for pushing through the crux.
Seasonally, late spring through early fall offers the most dependable conditions, avoiding the wet chill of coastal winters. Footwear with aggressive edging and sticky rubber is essential here, as the face sections offer limited footholds and demand precise foot placement. Staying hydrated and monitoring weather shifts are key to a safe and enjoyable climb in this temperate rainforest environment.
Whether you’re eyeing this climb as a focal challenge or a stepping stone to harder objectives in the Sea to Sky corridor, The Stupidity of It All balances thrilling exposure with manageable length and protection. Its compact intensity invites climbers to sharpen both mental and physical edge in one push before retreating to nearby lakeside camps or junctions. Prepare well, respect the rock, and this route promises a slice of raw BC climbing that’s as real as it is demanding.
The route’s exposure along the arete means loose rock can be a concern; helmets are essential. Approach conditions get slippery after rain, so tread carefully on roots and moss. It’s also wise to test bolts before committing, especially after winter storms.
Start early to avoid afternoon rockfall from warming sun.
Use sticky rubber shoes for the delicate face crack sections.
Check the weather forecast closely — coastal rains can slick the rock quickly.
Layer clothing to adjust for cooler temps shaded by dense forest.
Climbers should bring a standard trad rack with cams sized for thin to medium cracks, plus quickdraws for the fixed bolts. The face sections require precision in placing smaller cams, while bolts offer consistent protection on tricky moves.
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