5.10c, Sport
Squamish
British Columbia ,Canada
"Twisted presents a focused 55-foot sport climb on granite slab, beckoning climbers with precise slab moves under secure protection. Set in The Smoke Bluffs, this route balances technical footwork with accessible line-setting, ideal for those honing their slab skills in a quality Squamish setting."
Twisted offers a compact but engaging sport climb set in the rugged, accessible playground of The Smoke Bluffs near Squamish, British Columbia. This single-pitch route stretches 55 feet, challenging climbers with a 5.10c rating that demands precise footwork and confident slab technique. The climb begins on neat, solid rock, inviting you to trust your feet as the route veers left onto a delicate slab. Here, small smears and thin edges reward steady balance, while bolts line the path, offering reassuring protection as you make your way upward.
The Smoke Bluffs area sits in a well-loved climbing zone characterized by granite walls that catch the light of the afternoon sun, warming the rock and allowing for optimal friction. Twisted’s slabby moves tap into this sunny aspect, ideal for late morning to afternoon ascents when the temperature moderates and the stone feels grippy but not slick. From the top, you’ll briefly savor views of the forested slopes below, where Douglas firs and cedars crowd the land, their scents hinted on the breeze.
Accessing the climb is straightforward, with established trails winding through a mix of soft earth and compact stone paths. Expect a roughly 10-minute approach from the main parking area, following well-marked signs that track elevation gain but remain friendly on the legs. The approach itself offers moments of peace, broken only by the rustling of the local wildlife and the distant murmur of the Squamish River carving through the valley.
Protection comes courtesy of five bolts, spaced to match the technical demands of the route, supplemented by gear placements up to 1 inch, which most climbers will find ample for ensuring confidence on the slab. The rock quality here is solid, though the slab’s angle requires attentive foot placements to avoid slipping. Climbers should prepare with sticky, well-maintained climbing shoes and remain mindful of their balance, as the route’s thin profile rewards precision over brute strength.
Summiting Twisted offers a satisfying mix of movement, exposure to open granite, and a chance to experience one of Squamish’s classic sport climbs without the crowds that often swarm the more famous walls. Whether you are tuning your slab skills or looking to push into that 5.10 range on secure protection, Twisted delivers an accessible yet engaging challenge.
Plan your climb with hydration and sun protection in mind — exposed granite can sap energy quickly under direct light. Early to mid-spring through late fall is the recommended climbing window, avoiding winter’s damp chill and summer’s heat spikes. Descend by carefully downclimbing or using the established rappel stations, paying attention to rope drag on the slab. This route is a clear favorite for those ready to step into controlled slab climbing set against the stunning natural backdrop unique to The Smoke Bluffs.
Maintain focus on your footing throughout the climb, especially on the thin slab sections where a slip could lead to a longer slide. The rock is solid but not forgiving of careless movements. Descending requires caution due to potential rope drag and limited ledge space.
Start climbing after mid-morning to allow the slab to warm up and improve friction.
Wear sticky shoes and practice slab techniques before attempting Twisted for better efficiency.
Hydrate well and apply sunscreen—exposed granite heats up quickly in sunny weather.
Use a rappel setup or downclimb carefully; rope drag can be tricky on this slab pitch.
Bring climbing shoes optimized for slab, quickdraws for five well-spaced bolts, and a few pieces of pro up to 1 inch. Granite here is clean but requires precise foot placements due to its thin slab nature.
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