| Smoke Bluffs
- As
early as the 1970's the rockclimbing park has been a popular destination
for hikers, rock climbers and photographers. For many years the
locals have been exploring the region with great pride and care.
It was not until 2006, that a local group of rock climbers banded
together to establish the region as a park so to protect the sensitive
granite formations and surrounding fauna.
It was the efforts of these early outdoor pioneers
that established the many trails, viewpoints and climbing routes
that we, now, enjoy today. The routes, whether climbing or hiking,
all provide fabulous views of the surrounding mountains and of Howe
Sound.
The trail system in the park follows, mostly, a gravel
path up through the hills leading to various climbing routes. Some
of the more popular mountaineering routes include the 'Smoke Bluff
Wall', 'Ronin's Corner', 'Crag X' and the 'Octopus Garden'.
Because of the various levels of climbing routes
available there are many routes suitable for beginners and experts.
One reason the Smoke Bluffs Park has become the most popular year
round climbing centre in Canada. In the Squamish Village there are
many mountaineering clubs and adventure companies providing lessons
and equipment. Many, of which, use the Smoke Bluffs Park as their
year round training ground.
Hikers also enjoy the park in large numbers. Some
come for a day of exploring trails, while others come to climb and
navigate the granite walls. The main hiking route called The Smoke
Bluff Trail is mainly an uphill trek zigzagging around rock walls
leading to views of the valley. The most popular viewpoints for
hikers are located near the 'Burger and Fries' and 'Penny Lane'
Climbing Routes.
In the parking lot of the park, at the trailhead,
are some large informative signs of the trail system, climbing routes
and of the history of the park. There are outhouses at the trailhead
and some along the trail.
Park Access - Traveling north on
Hwy 99 (Sea to Sky Highway) towards the Squamish Village take a
right at the main intersection onto Logger's Lane. Continue down
Logger's Lane for a short distance. Watch for the directional signs
pointing to the parking lot on your right. From the parking lot
the trailhead is just a few steps away.
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