Air Time offers a refreshing sport climb carved into the sun-baked walls of Colorado’s Dolores Canyon, inviting both eager newcomers and seasoned climbers to test their skills on its distinctive 80-foot pillar. This route guides you along a face dusted with desert varnish, where cross-bedding patterns trace the climb’s path—like nature’s own roadmap gripping your fingertips. The wall leans less than vertical, demanding steady footwork and careful balance rather than brute force.

Beginners will find the opening moves particularly engaging, with a technical crux situated within the first 10 feet. This section sets the tone, requiring focused hand placements and nerve to overcome the mental challenge that looms just above. Beyond this initial hurdle, the climb unfolds into a rhythm that encourages climbers to embrace the quiet desert atmosphere and the sprawling canyon views just beyond the rock.

Protection is well-established, consisting of seven quickdraw bolts spaced to accommodate confident lead falls. Notably, the first ascent team hooked an adjacent hand crack before committing to the face, placing bolts on lead to open the route. Since then, two additional bolts have been added toward the base, easing the start but leaving the climb’s character intact.

The climb’s pinnacle demands a mental push as well, with a subtle crux near the top that rewards precise moves and calm decision-making. Once atop, the effort is met with the satisfaction of standing on a solitary pillar, gazing across the vast, arid landscape—an open invitation to breathe deep and appreciate the desert’s unyielding spirit.

Planning your trip here means preparing for rugged approach terrain and dry conditions typical of Dolores Canyon. Footwear with sticky rubber will help negotiate the often slick desert varnish, and stretching beforehand is key to tackling the steady finger and hand holds. The best climbing windows fall outside of peak summer heat—early spring and late fall provide moderate temperatures and more pleasant climbing conditions. Hydration is critical as the air is typically dry, so carrying ample water is non-negotiable.

Approach trails are modest but sandy underfoot, winding through sparse scrub before arriving at the base of the pillar. Navigation is straightforward, and you’ll want to arrive early to enjoy cool morning light on the wall and avoid afternoon winds that can pick up in the canyon corridors. Though short, the climb offers a fulfilling blend of mental and physical challenges with enough variation to keep it interesting without overwhelming less experienced climbers.

Whether you’re polishing up your sport climbing fundamentals or seeking a fun, accessible pillar ascent, Air Time stands ready to welcome you with steady terrain, clear protection, and rewarding moves. The desert’s heat and silence only amplify the focused rhythm of pulling from one solid hold to the next—each moment a measured step toward claiming the top. Come prepared, climb smart, and let this moderate, sun-soaked route become a memorable highlight on your Colorado climbing itinerary.