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12 Waka Jawaka at The Point, Powderhorn Colorado

Gunnison, Colorado United States
sport climbing
sustained
desert rock
single pitch
endurance
red rock
Length: 40 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
12 Waka Jawaka
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"12 Waka Jawaka at The Point challenges climbers with a sustained 5.9 pitch set against the rugged red rock of Powderhorn, Colorado. Ideal for those looking to develop steady endurance and precision movement in a striking desert environment."

12 Waka Jawaka at The Point, Powderhorn Colorado

The Point in Powderhorn, Colorado offers climbers a distinctive challenge with 12 Waka Jawaka, a sport climb that demands both stamina and focus across its single, sustained pitch. Set against the rugged backdrop of Gunnison's red rock, this 40-foot route is a true test for climbers around the 5.9 level, often requiring careful reading of sequences rather than pure strength. Rock here feels solid yet often unforgiving, with the four bolts thoughtfully placed to maintain a consistent challenge along the climb’s length. The last bolt veers slightly right, shared with the adjacent Bongo Fury route, creating an interesting crossover point that adds a layer of strategy to the ascent.

Approaching the route means traversing classic desert terrain, where the dry air sharpens your senses and the landscape stretches open under a vast Colorado sky. The rock surface carries a grainy texture, offering both friction and subtle edges to grip. Climbers must be prepared for sustained moves that test balance and footwork more than brute force, making well-fitted climbing shoes and careful route preview essential before committing to each move. The two-bolt anchor shared with Bongo Fury provides a secure top-out option, though climbers should be ready for a calculated rappel or easy downclimb.

Expect the sun to soak the wall in the afternoon, so early starts during summer months can keep you from overheating. The Point’s semi-remote location rewards visitors with breathtaking views that stretch across Gunnison valley, making the ascent as visually gratifying as it is physically engaging. Even with just a handful of votes and a moderate star rating, 12 Waka Jawaka holds a special place for those who appreciate routes that push steady endurance alongside technical savvy.

Preparation is key here: hydration is a priority in this dry high-desert environment, and lightweight climbing gear that does not compromise protection is recommended. The bolts are solid but limited, encouraging climbers to maintain focus on clipping placements efficiently. This route is perfect for sport climbers who want to shake off the usual crux-heavy style and embrace a climb that tests sustained movement and mental pacing. Whether you are visiting Powderhorn to rack up new sends or seeking a reliable way to build endurance, 12 Waka Jawaka delivers a grounded experience framed by Colorado’s vast open skies and red rock solitude.

Climber Safety

The bolts are solid but limited in number; climbers should clip confidently to avoid pendulum falls. Approaching the anchor requires caution due to its shared position with another route and limited space.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length40 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon sun warming the wall.

Bring shoes with excellent edging ability for sustained moves.

Stay well hydrated due to dry desert air.

Plan for a rappel or downclimb via the anchor shared with Bongo Fury.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:While rated 5.9, this route leans toward a stiff grade given its unrelenting sustained climbing with minimal rest. It doesn't rely on a single crux but demands continuous focus, making it feel harder than some local 5.9s that break the effort with easier sections.

Gear Requirements

Four bolts protect the route, with the final bolt positioned slightly right, shared with Bongo Fury. The two-bolt anchor is also shared, requiring efficiency and concentration for safe clipping and top-out.

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Tags

sport climbing
sustained
desert rock
single pitch
endurance
red rock