"Boobalaty is a straightforward trad climb on North Table Mountain that challenges with a wide chimney and requires focused movement. Perfect for intermediate climbers looking to sharpen chimney skills or a quick trad outing within striking distance of Golden, Colorado."
Boobalaty offers a brief but intriguing trad route that carves a path through the rugged rock of North Table Mountain’s Golden Cliffs. This climb demands focus as you navigate a wide chimney that leans gently to the left, inviting you to engage directly with the physicality of the rock. The chimney’s walls, textured and cool under your hands, frame your upward push while the sounds of the surrounding quarry echo below, reminding you of the raw geological forces at play. The route is short, making it a perfect taste of trad climbing in this area—but don’t underestimate the need for attention to detail: loose boulders line parts of the chimney, offering both natural protection points and subtle hazards.
The approach sets the tone for the route’s straightforward but textured character. Leading to North Quarry’s Pinnacle Area, the terrain is a patchwork of worn trail mixed with natural debris, requiring steady footing but no extreme scrambling. Roughly 15 minutes from nearby parking, it’s an easy walk-in that makes Boobalaty highly accessible for a quick climb session or a warm-up before longer routes in the Golden Cliffs. Once at the base, you’ll find a chimney formation flanked by solid rock faces that have held steady against wind and weather over decades.
Protection is primarily natural: large loose boulders at the top provide anchoring options for top-rope setups. While this limits the route’s lead potential slightly, it creates an excellent scenario for practicing chimney techniques and building confidence with trad placements. Keep your eyes sharp for the stability of these blocks, and carry a standard trad rack, focusing on larger cams and slings for secure gear placements within the chimney’s features.
The rating of 5.8 reflects a moderate difficulty that blends physical climbing with a mental game. There’s a crux where the chimney narrows, calling for balance and precise footwork, but the move-set remains accessible for intermediate climbers comfortable with chimney styles. Seasonally, the climb is best tackled in spring or fall, when the rock cools off after the heat of summer and before winter frost complicates the approach. The north-facing wall also means shade for much of the day, helping keep your grip dry and muscles cooled.
Safety here revolves around loose rock. The boulders at the summit anchor spot demand caution; test every block before weighting it fully. The chimney’s uneven structure can conceal unstable holds, so slow, deliberate movement counts more than speed. With the right preparation, Boobalaty offers a rewarding and approachable trad outing that exposes you to the rugged charm of Colorado’s climbing landscape.
Below, the larger North Table Mountain area offers an expansive outdoor climbing playground characterized by golden rock faces, panoramic views toward the Flatirons, and a variety of routes ranging from sport to traditional climbing. It’s an ideal spot for adventurers looking to blend moderate technical challenges with unbeatable accessibility.
Prepare with sturdy shoes, bring a helmet for dislodged rock risk, hydrate well for the dry mountain climate, and plan timing to avoid midday heat. Whether you’re dialing in your chimney technique or simply seeking a quick climb with solid payoff, Boobalaty delivers a climber’s moment of quiet intensity amid Colorado’s storied cliffs.
Loose boulders inside the chimney and at the top anchor present a hazard; verify each hold and gear placement thoroughly. A helmet is recommended due to potential rockfall, especially in early season or after freeze-thaw cycles.
Approach via North Quarry Pinnacle Area; expect a 15-minute walk from parking.
Test all boulders carefully before weighting them as anchors.
Best climbed in spring or fall for cooler temperatures and dry rock.
Bring a helmet to protect against occasional loose rock inside the chimney.
Trad gear with an emphasis on larger cams and slings to protect chimney placements. Loose boulders atop the route serve as natural anchors for top-roping. A helmet is strongly recommended due to potential rockfall.
Upload your photos of Boobalaty and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.