A Brief History of Time stakes its claim just south of the familiar bustle around Gully Washer, tucked into the steep walls of Upper Dream Canyon near Boulder, Colorado. The route starts with a firm handshake from a right-facing flake crack that invites you onto a hand crack, promising technical movement that demands focus and precision. As you climb, the crack fades and the wall steepens, leading you to a bolt that marks the first crux—a subtle but committing move across a slab where the rhythm shifts. From here, you maneuver left and up, moving past a well-placed bolt onto a flared crack that challenges your finger strength and footwork.

The character of this single-pitch climb unfolds as you follow the crack upward, eventually spotting a pair of bolts to the right. These require a traverse that can create rope drag if you don't extend those quickdraws well, a detail seasoned climbers will appreciate. But what follows is the true heart of the climb: a perfectly sculpted finger crack that pitches steeply through a bulge, offering a crux that tests your commitment and technique. Above the bulge, the route eases as you reach easier terrain and the reassuring chain anchor.

Originally, climbers followed a traverse to the right into a hand crack, but a more direct finish now exists, thanks to route developers Dale Haas and Bruce Hildenbrand. This alteration takes you straight up from the third bolt, clipping two bolts to a clean anchor equipped with rappel rings for an efficient descent.

Protection on the route requires a well-rounded rack of stoppers and cams ranging from small to medium sizes, enabling you to secure placements in the crack system. The three bolts protect sections of blank rock where natural protection isn’t possible, ensuring safe passage across exposed portions. Given the rope drag and the zig-zag nature of the climb, bringing extra extension gear is advisable.

Aside from the physical climb, the surrounding environment of Dream Dome and the wider Dream Canyon area offers a strong connection to the Rocky Mountain landscape. The dry, sun-soaked face and sparse vegetation create a stark contrast to nearby forested paths, while views out over Boulder’s foothills reward your efforts at the anchor. Late spring through early fall presents the best climbing window; summer mornings and late afternoons provide comfortable temperatures and manageable sun exposure on the southwest-facing wall.

The approach is straightforward—just a short walk down from the main trail leading to Gully Washer, with solid footing over rocky terrain and light brush. Expect about 10–15 minutes from the parking area, making this a convenient climb for those hungry for a sharp technical challenge without a long hike.

For descending, the rappel from the two-bolt anchor rings lets you return safely to the base. This descent requires a single 60-meter rope, and while it's generally straightforward, ensure your anchors are inspected to avoid surprises. The wall is exposed to occasional wind gusts, so secure gear and stay aware of your surroundings during rappel.

A Brief History of Time offers climbers a focused taste of trad climbing that blends technical crack work with tactical bolt protection. It’s ideal for riders looking to sharpen crack skills amidst scenic Colorado backdrops with a moderate grade that pushes just beyond comfortable slab climbing. Whether you're linking this with nearby routes or making it the highlight of your day, the route delivers a solid dose of climbing satisfaction balanced by practical considerations and quiet mountain charm.