Spring Conditions Report: BC Climbing March/April 2026

As the winter snow begins to recede, climbers across British Columbia are gearing up for the 2026 season. This year's spring conditions are looking promising, with a slightly lower-than-average snowpack and an early warming trend in the interior.

Snowpack Analysis

In the Sea-to-Sky corridor, the snowline is currently sitting around 800 meters. This means that lower-elevation crags like the Smoke Bluffs and Murrin Park are already bone-dry and seeing plenty of action. However, higher-elevation routes on the upper tiers of the Chief still have some seepage and snow patches in the gullies.

In the Okanagan, Skaha Bluffs is in prime condition. The desert-like environment has already shed most of its winter moisture, and the south-facing walls are perfect for t-shirt climbing on sunny days.

Rockface Accessibility

Squamish: The Apron is mostly dry, though "Diedre" and "Banana Peel" can still have some wet spots after heavy rain. The Grand Wall is drying out quickly, but expect some seepage on the lower pitches for another few weeks.

Skaha: All major sectors are accessible. The Great Wall and Go West are in excellent shape. Watch out for loose rock on less-traveled routes as the freeze-thaw cycle concludes.

Seasonal Challenges

Spring in BC means unpredictable weather. Always pack a light shell and be prepared for sudden showers. Additionally, be mindful of nesting birds; several crags in the Squamish area have seasonal closures to protect local raptor populations. Check the Squamish Access Society website for the latest closure maps.