1. Check the weather forecast.

Climbers should check the weather forecast for the day they plan to climb outdoors. Climbers should try their best to climb in suitable weather conditions which include dry and cold weather. The climbing season in Squamish usually starts in early Spring and ends in late fall. Climbers will encounter the driest weather in June through August. Climbers should avoid climbing in extremely cold or hot temperatures, in rainy weather, and in extremely windy conditions. Below are general guidelines beginner climbers can follow to determine if they should head out to the crag. Beginner climbers are advised to be even more conservative in their decision-making process.

Temperature:

• How hot/cold is it out?
  • If the temperature is lower than 0°C or higher than 27°C ... NO-GO
  • If the temperature is between 0°C and 27°C ... GO
• How sunny is it out?
  • If it's extremely sunny out and the UV index relatively high and you cannot find a crag that's is protected by some shade ... NO-GO
  • If it's sunny out and you can protect yourself from the sun with appropriate clothing/gear and sunscreen ... GO

Precipitation:

• If it's forecasted to rain on the day you want to climb ... NO-GO
• If it rained heavily the day before you plan to climb and the rock has not dried yet ... NO-GO
• If it rained the day before you plan to climb and the rock will be dry by the time you climb ... GO

Wind:

• If wind speeds are extremely high ... NO-GO
• If wind conditions are likely to be indicative of storms and further precipitation ... NO-GO
• If winds are calm and light ... GO

2. Gear up.

In order to climb safely outdoors, climbers should pack the following essential climbing equipment. Equipment varies depending on the type of climbing you'll be doing but the following is generally needed for top-rope climbing.

• Helmet
• Harness
• Climbing shoes
• Chalk and chalk bag
• Belay device
• Rope

Source: https://www.fix.com/blog/moving-from-the-climbing-gym-to-the-outdoors/Links to an external site. | Accessed: October 18, 2021

3. Dress appropriately and pack the essentials.

Climbers should dress appropriately for the weather. It is usually a good idea to dress in layers so you can accommodate to any fluctuations in the temperature. Lower layers can include insulating layers made of merino wool to keep you warm in colder temperatures. Outer layers should protect against the rain and wind. Climbers should wear sunglasses and lightweight cotton clothing to protect themselves from the sun in the summer.

Additionally, climbers should pack the following essentials for an entire day at the crag.

• Water
• Food and snacks
• Sunscreen
• First-aid kit
• Hiking shoes
• Bug spray
• Guidebook

4. Pick a nice crag and have fun!

Climbing safety also depends on knowing your own skill and ability. Outdoor climbing is generally more challenging than indoor climbing and involves more mental and physical exertion as both the climber and belayer need to ensure their own safety and their partner's safety at all times. It is generally advised to downgrade when you climb outdoors. I can climb a 5.10a in the gym but when outdoors I will start off with a 5.8 route and then make my way up to a 5.9 or 5.10a. Climbing can be more dangerous when you are climbing a route of a grading that is beyond the scope of your skill level.

Source: https://www.squamishchief.com/local-sports/new-climbing-routes-at-smoke-bluffs-parking-lot-3347929Links to an external site. | Accessed: October 18, 2021