"Short but engaging, A Very Ament's Slab delivers focused trad slab climbing on the east face of a minor pinnacle in the Third Flatiron area. Its two pitches blend friction moves with solid protection, offering a crisp slice of Boulder’s granite cliffs for climbers eager to refine technique without committing to long routes."
A Very Ament's Slab offers climbers a tight, straightforward taste of traditional climbing perched on the east face of the south end of the Third Flatiron’s small pinnacle. Compact yet rewarding, this route stretches just over two pitches with crisp slab moves that challenge both your footwork and route-reading skills without taxing you with excessive length or complexity.
Starting at a distinct tree marking the north side of the east face, you’ll begin by threading easy, slabby climbing that quickly transitions into a steeper bulge. The rock here is solid granite, its texture offering trusting friction beneath your feet as you press upward toward a well-placed pin. From this point, the route shifts right over a steep overlap where protection is generously bolted—all bolts are modern, solid 3/8" hardware, easing any concerns about gear reliability.
The first pitch ends near the north edge of the face, where a belay bolt sits ready. The second pitch demands a bit more finesse with a crux that brings you left and up around the overlap. This section requires careful placement of trad gear, typically a #3 Camalot and a red Alien or similar, to protect the lieback move around a flake. The holds here reward deliberate movement and offer good handholds that lead to an easy slab climb rising to the razor-thin summit ridge.
Upon reaching the top, a sturdy two-bolt rappel anchor beckons. From the summit, a single 75-foot rappel gently deposits you westward back to the base. This descent is straightforward but requires attentiveness—the edge is sharp and commitment is clear once you leave the summit ledge.
This route’s beauty lies in its concise nature and clear-headed approach to trad slab climbing. It’s an excellent option for climbers seeking a short but engaging adventure in the heart of Boulder’s iconic Flatirons. Weather-wise, spring through fall is ideal. The route catches early sun but also benefits from afternoon shade that keeps the granite from overheating in summer. Footwear with sticky rubber will ensure confident smears and delicate edging.
Bring draws for the bolts and a rack with cams from #0.5 to #3 Camalots for tricky placements on pitch two. The rock’s integrity is high, and the bolts inspire confidence, but the slab nature demands careful foot placement and mindfulness of rope drag—using a double rope setup or skipping the belay bolt clip on pitch one can ease the lines.
A Very Ament's Slab is a compact gem offering a pure slab experience, perfect for those honing their trad climbing skills in Colorado’s renowned Flatirons.
Watch for rope drag caused by the route's zig-zag pattern, especially if climbing with a single rope. The rappel station on the summit is solid but positioned just beyond a razor-edged ridge—take care transitioning to the descent anchor to avoid slips or gear damage.
Approach via the established trail to the Third Flatiron's south end; the route starts near a lone tree on the north side of the east face.
Using a double rope system or skipping certain bolt clips on pitch one reduces rope drag caused by the zig-zagging line.
Bring sticky rubber shoes to maximize traction on the slabby granite surface, especially on the steeper upper section.
Best climbed in cooler parts of the day during spring through fall to avoid slippery heat-softened rock.
Standard trad rack with cams ranging from #0.5 to #3 Camalots is essential, along with draws for the moderately spaced bolts. Longer slings help reduce rope drag around the zig-zagging line. Multiple solid 3/8" bolts provide dependable protection, paired with natural placements for red Alien and Camalot sizes on the upper pitch.
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