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Washington Bullets: A Technical Testpiece in Murrin Park

Squamish, British Columbia Canada
finger crack
technical
sustained difficulty
single pitch
thin crack
blue Metolius
purple Camalot
Length: 60 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Washington Bullets
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Washington Bullets demands precision with its thin, sustained finger crack on Squamish’s granite walls. This single-pitch trad climb offers a tight, technical challenge for climbers who thrive on careful gear placements and sharp crack skills."

Washington Bullets: A Technical Testpiece in Murrin Park

Washington Bullets stands as a stark invitation to climbers craving a precise, demanding crack climb in the heart of Squamish’s famed Murrin Park. This single-pitch, 60-foot trad route chisels through tight finger cracks that never quite settle into comfort. From the moment your fingers search for purchase to the top anchors framed by stout chains, the climb demands attention and commitment—there’s no room for hesitation here.

Approaching the climb, the forest around Murrin Park hums quietly as the river’s energy pulses nearby, offering a grounding soundtrack to focus your mind. The climb itself offers a steady diet of thin crack climbing, where the held breaths and calculated moves make it less about brute strength and more about finesse and balance. Difficulty builds as you inch upward; midway through, the holds shrink and the gear placements become more spaced and fiddly, demanding careful, well-placed pro, especially blue Metolius and purple Camalots.

Protection on Washington Bullets is a careful dance. Finger-sized gear works best for the majority, with a chance to place a larger #2 Camalot near the top, but the stretch between placements amplifies the mental challenge. The gear is reliable but sparse enough to keep you locked into the flow of the climb, emphasizing steady movement and focused technique over relying on frequent rests.

Squamish’s granite here feels alive—sharp edges that test your skin, cool stone warmed only slightly by the sun, and the faint aroma of cedar drifting through the air. The climb’s aspect allows for morning sun, warming the rock when early starts are key, and afternoon shade keeps things comfortable during hotter months. After topping out, the descent is straightforward with chains ready for a quick rappel down to the base, a slick getaway that spares any tricky downclimbing anxieties.

Washington Bullets is not for the casual climber but rather those with a palate for technical challenges who want a compact yet intense experience. It rewards climbers who prepare carefully with appropriate gear and sharp focus, promising a satisfying send that hones crack climbing skills while soaking in one of Squamish’s accessible crags. Whether sharpening crack techniques or pushing into thin, sustained climbing, this route delivers an honest measure of your climbing finesse in a setting that blends raw nature with manageable logistics.

Before you set off, plan for a solid approach through well-maintained trails in Murrin Park, with about 15-20 minutes on foot from the parking lot. The area is popular, so starting early helps avoid crowds and secures parking. Bring gloves if your skin tends to pick up quickly, carry a rack heavy on blue and purple Camalots, and stay hydrated—the Pacific Northwest air holds moisture that can sneak up on you. Attention to detail in your placements, smooth footwork, and a cool head make this classic crack route a highlight of Squamish’s granite playground.

Climber Safety

Gear placements can be spaced and fiddly with narrow finger cracks; ensure secure pro before committing to moves. The rock is generally solid but sharp, so careful hand and foot placements are key to avoid slips or skin damage. The descent rappel requires attention—reload gear for safety checks.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length60 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid crowds and secure parking at Murrin Park.

Pack a rack focused on finger-sized cams, especially blue Metolius and purple Camalots.

Bring climbing gloves to protect delicate skin on the thin crack.

Hydrate well; the Pacific Northwest’s humid air can mask dehydration.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.10+
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.10+, Washington Bullets sits in a sweet spot of technical crack climbing that feels accurately graded if not slightly stiff due to the sustained thinness and gear spacing. The crux appears midway-up where holds shrink and protection becomes more precious, adding an extra mental layer. Compared to other Murrin Park routes, it’s a clear step up in finesse and commitment, rewarding those well-practiced in finger jams and delicate gear.

Gear Requirements

Essential finger-sized protection dominates this climb, with blue Metolius to purple Camalots making up most placements. A larger #2 Camalot can be placed near the top, but the route demands precise, confident gear placement due to the spacing and fiddly nature.

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Tags

finger crack
technical
sustained difficulty
single pitch
thin crack
blue Metolius
purple Camalot