Weekend Rock options?

[Blake]

I have never climbed in Squamish this time of year.

This weekend looks OK Saturday and dry sunday. Given the fairly dry week we are experiencing, and the forecasted sun, does anyone think there is a realistic chance of finding some dry rock and not freezing?

Even if it means sticking to short routes at Murrin or the Bluffs... what's the consensus from the local veterans on climbing during the conditions forcast for this winter?


THANKS A TON

[Steve Townshend]

I'm a sport climber and personally like climbing when it's 10C+; your hands go through the "freeze-thaw process" and then as long as you can keep them warm you can try to do routes.... but usually you FAIL MISERABLY as they will re-freeze before the crux! haha

Here's my 2 cents:

Below 10C / 50F: BOULDERING is Best! it will be sunny, but NOT warm! the longer you hold sub-zero rock, the more likely you are to freeze your fingers. if you just Boulder, it will be crisp and you only have to hold the rock for a few seconds; not long enough to loose feeling.

if you MUST do routes.... do ones in the sun. The Smoke Bluffs seem to be popular in the sunny winter days.

Good Luck

[JSmith]

The best option is probably Penny Lane on the Smoke Bluffs. It gets the most sun, dries quick, and has a nice variety of routes. Pet Wall is nice, but get's less sun. I'll second Manboy's comments on bouldering. It's cold but you don't have to hang on for to long!