Better You Than Me / Around the Corner stands out as an approachable sport climbing route tucked along the Aqueduct Trail in Boulder Canyon, Colorado. It offers a brief but engaging challenge for those eager to sharpen their on-sight skills or add some easy mileage to their day in the mountains. At a solid 5.8 grade, the climb balances an accessible difficulty with some mildly tricky terrain, suited for beginner leaders who want to test themselves beyond the gym walls.

The climb starts immediately alongside the trail, with the first bolts placed near a crack—a detail that might raise eyebrows among crack-averse climbers, but in this case, it simply sets the stage for an upward journey on less than perfect rock. The rock itself is a bit crumbly and dirty in spots, which demands attention on foot placements and handholds. However, the bolt line is reliable and gym-style, making the route safe despite the irregular texture.

Progressing from the initial bolts, the line angles gently right toward a rounded arete that delivers the climb’s most enjoyable movement. The crux lives near the bottom section, challenging climbers early to find their rhythm and composure. Above, staying left of the arete ventures into less natural holds, feeling forced and lacking clear feet, which pushes most to choose the more comfortable path to the anchor.

The anchor sits above a small ledge, but beware: there’s no solid footing to clip in comfortably, so prepare for some attentive balancing. The route’s moderate length and bolt spacing keep the pace steady, and while the overall position on the arete hints at potential excitement, the option to easily traverse off the wall tempers the thrill for some.

A neighboring line climbs straight from the start up to the same anchor and appears cleaner and even less demanding. This suggests the possibility of future development with additional bolts. For now, top-roping that line offers a risk-free way to build confidence and extend your Boulder Canyon experience.

Getting to Better You Than Me is straightforward—just follow the well-worn Aqueduct Trail. The approach is quick and gentle, a perfect warm-up before or after other climbs in the area. Bring sturdy shoes to navigate loose rock patches safely and plenty of water, especially in summer when the dry mountain air can be unforgiving.

Climbers will appreciate that, despite its imperfections, this route delivers a real outdoor feel and solid sport climbing practice close to Boulder’s urban center. It’s ideal for newcomers stepping up from indoor gyms and for locals looking for a short lap that blends easy access with some edge to the moves. Weather-wise, spring through fall offers the best conditions when the rock is dry and temperatures moderate.

For those heading to Boulder Canyon, this climb adds variety to your day and a chance to engage with the local granite on a scale that doesn’t overwhelm but still challenges balance, technique, and mental focus. Arm yourself with quickdraws, dress in layers, and don’t forget your helmet—a precaution worth taking on any mountain crag where loose rock can surprise.

In all, Better You Than Me encourages exploration and modest progression amid familiar surroundings. It’s a route that welcomes the learning curve, embraces the nuances of real rock, and invites climbers to linger a little longer at the mountain’s edge, soaking in the horizon framed by the foothills. Whether you’re checking off your first outdoor lead or looking for a straightforward climb near Boulder, this route deserves a spot in your Alpine notebook.