Leg 5. Climb and/or hike the Chief

View from the summit, looking out over the ocean (Howe Sound).
Come on! If this 8-year-old kid did it, so can you.

Overview: A coordinated but not guided adventure. Non-competitive. Not a race.

Duration: Single-day leg; for hikers: 90 min up & 45 min down . for climbers, it depends on how fast you climb!

Demands: Hiking up the trail takes about 90 minutes, and down is about an 45 minutes. The hike is 2/3 as high as and similar in nature to the Grouse Grind, but bare in mind that there is no gondola for descending. Climbers and hikers will hike down this way after climbing. Climbers/Hikers should be adequately prepared to arrange their own way down in case anything goes awry.The easiest technical rock climbing routes to the top of the chief are many pitches up to 5.10, the grand wall route is at least about 9 pitches up to 5.11 and is the route the relay will follow. Climbers should spread out on a variety of routes to avoid congesting the route. Climbing takes most parties a full day. Hiking to the top is easier but is on a rough and steep trail gaining over 700m in elevation over about 2 km. This trail is over rocky terrain and often wet, and in case of rain everyone will be taking the trail up and down.

Logistics: Meet in Squamish on April 25 as per the itinerary below, climbers should get an early start (~9 am). Hikers need to be on the summit at 5pm, so should start by 2 or 3 (earlier if you want to spend some time on top first).

Requirements: You must pre-register as a group of 2 or more persons. No individuals will be permitted. If a member of your group is unable to continue for any reason, the entire group must remain with and accompany that individual to safety. Groups must be self-sufficient. This leg is only appropriate for groups that are competent and experienced enough to carry out a trip like this on their own.

Itinerary:

Friday, April 25^th

9:00am — Meet at the Apron parking lot, Squamish, for an early start to climbs. Bring everything you need for the day – food, water, and gear. In the event of rain, then all are hiking the trail.

10:00am — Climbers should all be on their way. Others choosing the hiking option can head up the chief trails, possibly exploring all the summits on the way.

2:30pm (est.) — Hikers should begin their way up.

5:00pm (est.) — Meet on the summit, pass the “torch” to the next group heading back down the trail.

7:30pm (est.) – All are back in the Apron parking lot.

Cost: Free, bring your own food for the day.

How to Sign Up: Get your group of 2 or more people together, select a group representative, then have each person sign up here. Each participant must sign up online.

Ready? sign up now

View from the Parking Lot, looking up at the Grand Wall and the First Peak.