Try Me at Harrison Bluffs offers a unique blend of technical climbing and strategic movement along a tight, narrow arete that demands careful footwork and precise protection. The route, a single pitch of 80 feet, threads through an exposed line sandwiched between two imposing dihedrals, creating a distinct climbing experience that combines subtle finesse with physical commitment. Set in the Fraser Valley region of British Columbia, the climb presents a compelling intersection of rock quality and natural architectural challenge. From the moment your hands find the bolted arete, the route dares you to resist the inviting cracks on either side, especially the right-hand one, which beckons but demands discipline to avoid. The bolts are spaced thoughtfully, about three feet from the cracks, encouraging climbers to trust the line and engage with the arete’s sharp edges.

Above the final bolt, the climb shifts subtly: the last moves require a careful rightward swing to finish along the path used by Root Picker, adding a touch of variety and a chance to adjust body position before the top. Protection combines fixed bolts—five in total—with the need to insert traditional gear up to 2 inches in optimal placements; however, those placements come with a challenge. The cracks adjacent to the arete are awkward for gear, meaning climbers must balance between trusting bolts and committing to some trickier pro placements, making this route a valuable exercise in gear judgment as well as movement.

The setting itself—Harrison Bluffs within the larger Fraser Valley area—offers a solid granite face that attracts a regional crowd seeking moderately difficult lines with character. This climb’s rating of 5.10+ matches well with the physical and mental puzzle of managing the sharp edges and awkward gear scenario. It’s an excellent choice for trad climbers looking to push their precise clipping and footwork skills, as well as sport climbers venturing into mixed protection territory.

For approach, the trail is straightforward—a short hike leading directly from the main parking zone at The Change Room holds. The path is well-trodden, crossing forest undergrowth that gradually exposes the granite walls topped with airy bluffs. You’ll benefit from starting early in the day to catch good light and avoid heat on the rock, as the wall faces south-east, warming up nicely in the morning hours but becoming uncomfortably hot by afternoon. The Fraser Valley’s temperate climate makes spring through early fall the prime climbing window.

Safety-wise, it’s critical to note that the arete’s sharp profile offers limited runout in certain sections, and the proximity to the cracks means a slip can result in awkward swings if gear placements aren’t confidently set. Rock quality is generally solid, but attention to cleaning loose bits near the cracks is advised. The finish traverse right near the top demands calm, deliberate movement to avoid surprise exposure.

Descent is a quick rappel from a solid anchor at the route’s top. Make sure to bring a 60-meter rope or longer to comfortably reach the base without difficulties. The rappel line is straightforward with no intermediate stances, so double-check your knots and rigging before committing.

Whether you’re stepping up from sport routes into trad or adding a challenging single pitch to your Harrison Bluffs tick list, Try Me offers a clear test of technical ability combined with thoughtful protection management. Its striking personality shines in the details: the demanding arete holds your focus, the close-by cracks tease with tricky gear options, and the crisp mountain air sets the rhythm for a memorable day out in British Columbia’s climbing heartland.