"Black Walk challenges climbers with a sustained, slabby line that bends unexpectedly right on Colorado’s Black Wall. This 90-foot single-pitch sport route rewards those prepared for precise footwork and steady nerves."
Black Walk offers a unique challenge along the rugged Black Wall in the Big Gypsum area of Colorado. This single-pitch, 90-foot sport climb demands focus and precise footwork as it follows a subtle, slabby line that bends unexpectedly to the right. Beginning with options for a few early gear placements on the adjacent Doobieous Deliverance, climbers quickly reach the first bolt of Black Walk, where the real test begins. The route is sustained and requires a steady head — this isn’t your typical easy 5.8. The bolts are spaced out against a clean, smooth face, requiring careful movement and control to connect each clip with confidence. The rock’s texture offers enough friction, but the slabby nature means balance is king.
The surrounding landscape extends a quiet, open presence: the Black Wall stands stark against the wide, high desert sky of Colorado’s Dolores region. From here, climbers get glimpses of Paradox Valley’s broad expanse, where dry brush and rugged cliffs frame the approach and descent. The sun plays a shifting role, often warming the rock by mid-morning, but with afternoon shade arriving early in cooler months.
Gear setup is straightforward but calls for preparedness: start with a couple of cams on Doobieous Deliverance to secure the beginning, then transition into clipping draws for the bolted section. While the old guidebooks hint at additional gear above, recent climbs confirm bolts provide primary protection, though light cams don’t hurt to carry as a backup. The anchor is built with webbing, so runners might want a cordelette or quickdraws that can extend safely.
Access to Black Walk requires a short but moderately uneven hike from the parking area, with terrain that is typical of Colorado’s gypsum cliffs—loose rock here and there demands careful footing on the approach. The climb’s location at roughly 38.13 latitude and -108.87 longitude places it within a broad range of accessible routes for intermediate climbers seeking a bit more character than the standard bolt-to-bolt sport climbs.
Preparation-wise, climbers should keep hydration a priority—the dry air and altitude are real factors. Footwear that balances grip and sensitivity will help tackle the technical slabs. Timing your climb to avoid the late afternoon sun in summer keeps the rock cooler and easier to work. Black Walk’s reputation as a 5.8 PG13 route means it carries some commitment; not only must climbers manage its crux and spacing but also maintain composure on a line that won’t always go where the eye first suspects.
Overall, Black Walk invites climbers to test their slab skills and route-reading abilities against a wall that pushes right in deliberate moves. It’s a concise climb, but each step demands intent, making it a rewarding climb for those ready to approach a deceptively straightforward-looking slab with patience and precision.
Spacing between bolts calls for controlled, confident clipping; falls could lead to pendulum swings against the wall. The anchors rely on webbing, so double-check your gear for secure attachment. Loose rock on the approach requires careful steps to avoid slips.
Start early to avoid the afternoon sun warming the slab too much.
Hydrate well; the dry air of Paradox Valley can dehydrate fast.
Wear shoes with sensitive rubber for the slab sections.
Watch your footing on the approach—loose gypsum rock can be slippery.
Begin on Doobieous Deliverance with a couple of gear placements before reaching Black Walk's first bolt. Then transition to draws clipped into spaced bolts. Bring a few thin cams just in case; anchors may be webbing rather than fixed hardware.
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