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Body Tremors: A Pocketed Challenge at Redgarden Wall in Eldorado Canyon

Boulder, Colorado United States
pocketed face
chimney nearby
long pitch
runout warning
solid rests
multiple descent options
Length: 170 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Body Tremors
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Body Tremors is a distinctive single pitch trad climb in Eldorado Canyon’s Redgarden Wall. Known for its pocketed face and strategic gear placements, it provides a fulfilling finish or a focused adventure on its own within the sandstone’s rugged embrace."

Body Tremors: A Pocketed Challenge at Redgarden Wall in Eldorado Canyon

Body Tremors offers a succinct yet memorable finish to any climb in Redgarden, one of Eldorado Canyon’s iconic walls, making it a prized addition for climbers seeking a unique experience after a longer effort. This single-pitch traditional climb stretches roughly 170 feet high, revealing a pocketed face rich with intermittent cracks that coax you to read the rock carefully, hunting pockets and rests as you ascend. The route skirts just left of the formidable Chockstone Chimney, starting with moves similar to that demanding line before veering slightly right and weaving its own path upward. Its character is defined by those abundant pockets and large holds, encouraging a playful exploration rather than strict adherence to a defined line. It’s a route that pushes you to trust your instincts on gear placement and body movement, rewarding those who come prepared with a solid rack and an appetite for some adventure.

Located between Tower One and Tower Two on the upper ramp of Redgarden, Body Tremors occupies a unique niche amid the cluster of finishes including Lower Grand Giraffe, Art’s Spar, and Upper Grand Giraffe. The saddle here acts as a crossroads, where climbers gather before dispersing to their chosen descent or next challenge. The rock is firm and mostly positive, a contrast to the occasional runouts typical of this area, but the comfort found in solid rests and wide gear placements allows for confident progression—even with the PG13 rating warning of some spaced protection. Expect to place several larger cams in the numerous huecos and pockets, supported by a handful of cracks accommodating stoppers—no tiny gear is necessary. Slings come in handy for extending placements as the route wanders, encouraging thoughtful rope management and route-finding skills.

Approaching Body Tremors involves trekking to the Redgarden Wall, set within Eldorado Canyon State Park near Boulder, Colorado. The approach is an easy hike along well-maintained trails, putting you right beneath the magnificent sandstone faces within 15-20 minutes. As you move into position beneath the route, the sight of towering rock punctuated by pockets and a massive chimney to the right beckons. The canyon’s dry air hums softly, broken only by the occasional chatter of nearby climbers or the distant call of canyon wildlife, grounding you in this lively outdoor gym.

Descending requires some planning: you can rappel east over Chockstone Chimney back to the upper ramp, or opt to walk eastward to the saddle and descend via the East Slabs. Another option is to pick your way northwest to the walk-off at the far corner of Redgarden Wall. Each demands steady footing and attention to terrain, especially if the rock has warmed in the sun or the day is fading. Timing your climb for spring through early fall offers the best conditions. Morning shade on Redgarden gives a comfortable start, with the afternoon sun gradually warming the rock—perfect for lubricating fingers and warming muscles.

Body Tremors is more than just a short route. It’s a compact lesson in reading rock texture, managing gear placements in non-linear terrain, and savoring those moments of respite perched on solid ledges overlooking Eldorado’s rugged scenery. Whether you arrive after a thorough morning on nearby classics or seek a spirited standalone pitch, this climb stands ready to challenge and reward your instincts beneath Colorado’s striking sandstone walls.

Climber Safety

Although the route offers solid holds and rests, the protection can be spaced out, so avoid leading this climb without a well-rounded traditional rack and experience placing cams in huecos. The belay area lacks comfortable options, so plan to climb the entire pitch in one go. Descending requires care, particularly if rappelling near or over Chockstone Chimney, where anchors need to be double-checked.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length170 feet

Local Tips

Start early in the day to enjoy cooler rock and fewer crowds.

Manage rope drag by extending gear placements generously with long slings.

Choose your descent carefully; rappelling Chockstone Chimney requires firm rappel skills and solid anchors.

Wear sturdy shoes with good edging for traversing the varied pocketed terrain.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8 PG13
Quality
Consensus:The 5.8 PG13 rating signals a climb that feels moderate but with some runouts that require confident gear placements and route reading. While protection is generally good with larger cams in pockets, the spacing creates a mental challenge that bumps the difficulty beyond a typical 5.8. This makes Body Tremors feel stiffer than a sport route of similar grade, rewarding experience over boldness. Compared to other Eldorado classics, it presents a gentler style but demands attention to gear and composure.

Gear Requirements

Standard Eldo rack works well here; focus on several sets of larger cams for the plentiful huecos and pockets, plus stoppers for occasional cracks. Bring plenty of long slings to extend gear and reduce rope drag due to the wandering line.

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Tags

pocketed face
chimney nearby
long pitch
runout warning
solid rests
multiple descent options