HomeClimbingBackwards Pouch

Backwards Pouch at The Wombat Warren Wall

Denver, Colorado United States
face climbing
slab
small bulge
short pitch
South Platte
sport
top-rope
Length: 40 ft
Type: Sport, TR
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Backwards Pouch
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Backwards Pouch is a sharp, sustained 5.9 that challenges climbers with a dynamic face climb and a technically engaging slab. Sitting at the Wombat Warren Wall, it’s a compact pitch that rewards precision and offers a taste of South Platte’s classic character."

Backwards Pouch at The Wombat Warren Wall

Backwards Pouch offers climbers a compact but engaging experience tucked into one of South Platte’s distinctive crags, the Wombat Warren Wall. The route starts just right of a lone tree at the crag’s left edge, where the rock feels lively under your fingers, inviting a blend of precise footwork and focused face climbing. As you move upward, a small bulge challenges your technique, demanding clear body positioning and steady balance. Beyond this feature, the wall opens up into a featured slab that stretches smoothly toward the anchor, rewarding your effort with confident, flowing moves.

The climb holds true to its 5.9 rating, providing sustained difficulty without unnecessary fiddling or runouts. Its 40-foot length is brief but consistent, making it an excellent choice for those looking to sharpen sport or top-rope skills in a natural setting. Protection is straightforward, with five draws plus an anchor ensuring secure placements along the way. The rock’s texture is firm but approachable, and while the route does not extend beyond one pitch, it offers a solid challenge that feels just right for climbers tuning their technique or stretching their endurance in moderate terrain.

Located at latitude 39.25512 and longitude -105.0966, the Wombat Warren Wall presents an accessible yet quiet spot within Colorado’s South Platte area. The crag’s name owes to the marsupial wombat, whose backward-facing pouch inspires the route’s moniker; the climb's steady upward push mirrors the purposefulness of this unique biological trait. Climbers will appreciate the mix of face holds and slab moves, feeling the rock's subtle variations as they tackle each section. This route is best enjoyed in late spring through early fall when the weather is stable, and the sun offers warmth without overheating the gray-brown sandstone.

As always, preparation is key: aim for mid-morning or late afternoon climbs to avoid the peak sun, and pack water and light snacks for a brief wilderness pause after your sends. Footwear with a precise edge is recommended to navigate the slab efficiently, and don’t hesitate to bring a top-rope setup if you want to safely practice moves or share the route with newer climbers. While the area isn’t heavily trafficked, maintaining careful respect for the natural surroundings ensures a positive experience for both climbers and local wildlife.

Backwards Pouch is a manageable yet rewarding route that captures the character of South Platte climbing—practical, approachable, and fundamentally enjoyable. It’s a route that leaves you wanting just a bit more, the kind of climb that invites return visits and steady improvement.

Climber Safety

While the bolts are reliable, the route requires careful clipping on the bulge to avoid a fall onto a ledge below. The rock is solid but keep an eye on loose debris at the base from past climbers’ traffic. Also, check local weather forecasts to avoid sudden afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months.

Route Details

TypeSport, TR
Pitches1
Length40 feet

Local Tips

Start just right of the lone tree on the crag’s left side for the intended beta.

Use footwear with precise edging to handle the slab’s technical feet.

Mid-morning or late afternoon climbs avoid harsh sun on the rock.

Carry plenty of water and a small snack to stay fueled between sends.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9 rating feels steady and earned, with a sustained sequence that asks for focus on foot placement and body position. The bulge introduces a definite crux that makes the grade feel appropriately challenging, without overplaying the difficulty. While shorter than many longer routes nearby, it offers a concise dose of sport climbing polish that compares well with mid-grade climbs in the Devil's Head area.

Gear Requirements

Pack five draws plus a locking or regular carabiner for the anchor. The fixed bolts provide solid protection, but having quickdraws ready will keep your clipping smooth and efficient throughout the pitch.

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Tags

face climbing
slab
small bulge
short pitch
South Platte
sport
top-rope