"Big Rattler is a no-nonsense trad climb on Winterfest Wall’s north face, offering a compact, 70-foot single pitch with a strong finish in wide stemming. Ideal for those honing trad skills, it rewards focus with a satisfying movement past the overhang and clean, manageable protection."
At Winterfest Wall, perched on the northern slope of Table Mountain near Golden, Colorado, Big Rattler offers a straightforward trad climb that rewards commitment with a lively finish. This single-pitch route follows a defined corner system just to the left of the popular Whole Lotta Drunk climb. The rock here is solid but demands attention: the ledges near the top hold loose gravel and small rubble, making each step feel a bit more deliberate. The climb’s highlight arrives as you approach the overhang—wide stemming challenges you to find balance and leverage before reaching the anchorless top.
Access to Big Rattler begins with a short approach through dry, scrubby terrain characteristic of this foothill environment, casting broad views over the Golden cliffs and the distant Front Range. The wall faces mostly north, offering relief from searing afternoon sun in summer and making spring or early fall the ideal window to climb when temperatures are moderate and shadows lengthen early.
Protection here requires a standard trad rack, extending to 3-inch pieces to secure placements in the corner. Although there are no fixed anchors at the top, sturdy gear placements combined with careful route reading will keep you safe. Expect to build your own anchor or make use of double pieces to feel confident before the descent.
After topping out, the descent is straightforward: a short, easily navigable walk off to the north side leads back toward the trailhead. The compact length of the route—just 70 feet—makes it an approachable option for those sharpening their trad skills or looking to enjoy some classic Colorado crack climbing without committing to multi-pitch complexity.
Local advice emphasizes bringing shoes with solid edging to tackle the stemming section and packing plenty of water, as the exposure to sun on the approach trail can dehydrate climbers quickly. Although the technical grade reads a moderate 5.8, the offwidth-style moves near the overhang keep climbers honest and engaged.
Big Rattler fits well within the Golden Cliffs area’s collection of accessible trad climbs that showcase the area’s rugged volcanic sandstone. Its approachable nature and distinctive final mantel offer an engaging detour from busier sport lines in the region. Whether you’re scouting it as a warm-up or chasing a relaxed afternoon adventure, this climb balances practicality and adventure with every step.
Loose gravel and small rubble accumulate on the ledges approaching the top, requiring careful foot placement to avoid slips. The absence of fixed anchors means building a solid anchor is essential for a safe descent.
Wear shoes with firm edging to handle the wide stemming section effectively.
Pack plenty of water due to sun exposure on the approach trail.
Use double cams near the top to create a safer anchor.
Aim for spring or early fall to avoid midday heat on the north-facing wall.
Bring a standard trad rack up to 3-inch cams for secure placements. No fixed anchors at the top; build your own anchor carefully.
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