Squamish’s Beloved Mini Boulder “Portable” Returns After Months Missing

Alex Haas and friends pose with the recovered boulder Portable at a crag in Bishop, California. Photo courtesy of Alex Haas

A Small Boulder With a Big Following

Squamish’s climbing community is celebrating the return of a small granite boulder known as Portable, which went missing in early September 2025. Located near the popular Superfly bouldering area, Portable is a roughly 60-pound grey granite rock shaped like a milk jug.

Despite its size, it had gained a reputation as “the world’s smallest boulder problem,” offering climbers a fun challenge and countless Instagram moments. Local climber Brian Vincent described it as a fixture in the area, often surrounded by people attempting its four climbing problems.

“I think it’s been there for years, ever since I can remember. So many people love it and post about it from all over the world. Every time I go to Superfly, there are people surrounding this little boulder and taking turns videoing themselves,” Vincent told the Squamish Chief.

Disappearance Sparks Concern

The boulder had disappeared twice before, but each time it returned within a day or two. This time, it remained missing for months, prompting fears that it might have been taken out of the country. Climbers and fans worried the beloved rock might never return to its home at Superfly.

Discovery in California

In January 2026, the mystery was solved. Pro climber Ethan Salvo discovered Portable in Bishop, California, after local climbers Alex Haas and friends spotted it while climbing in the area. The boulder had been wearing a red toque with googly eyes, making identification tricky at first.

“When it first popped up, I was just stunned and then generally confused,” Salvo said. He has been bringing the boulder back to Squamish and plans to return it safely to the local climbing community.

Community Excited for Welcome Celebration

Salvo noted the strong online reaction, with fans from far beyond Squamish closely following updates on Portable’s journey home. Haas and his friends speculated the boulder may have been transported by car, likely by someone familiar with climbing culture.

A community welcome celebration is planned once the boulder returns, giving climbers a chance to see Portable back in its rightful place. The story highlights not only the importance of local climbing landmarks but also the unique connection between the Squamish climbing community and its natural features.