Boulder #4 stands alone as the singular freestanding boulder within Colorado’s upper valley and offers climbers an unmatched combination of raw alpine grandeur and world-class stone quality. Rising at 11,818 feet, this chunk of pink rock is famed for its north-facing overhang, renowned among locals and visitors alike as some of the best climbing surfaces in the state. Set against the backdrop of sweeping alpine scenery, Boulder #4 attracts climbers searching for both technical challenges and a serene mountain environment to escape into.

The approach itself primes you for the experience. Starting from Upper Chinns Lake, the trail takes you on a gentle uphill journey along the lake’s right edge toward the crystal-clear waters of Slater Lake. Keep left of the cascading waterfall feeding into Slater Lake and follow the grassy rise ahead. This leads you to a high meadow where the boulder appears on the horizon, a solitary monolith perched on a small bench. Careful navigation through a patchwork of bushes is required in the final stretch—this is not an overly trafficked trail, so preservation and minimal impact are paramount.

With climbing rooted in this distinct alpine ecosystem, conditions can shift quickly, so the best season generally falls from late spring through early fall, avoiding the heavy snow months. The north overhang provides a cool and textured face, especially welcomed in warmer weather. This is a bouldering destination where both the physical exertion and visual reward feel heightened by the elevation and isolation.

Climbers visiting Boulder #4 will find a collection of standout classics that command respect and promise memorable sends. Routes like Teenage Dream (V8), Young Folks (V7), Young, Wild, & Free (V10), and Yung Money (V4) showcase the diversity and character of the climbs here without overwhelming the visitor. The rock’s texture lends itself to powerful moves and precise footwork, demanding focus but rewarding with incredible movement and flow. While the climbs vary in difficulty, the atmosphere remains inviting for those eager to push their limits or simply embrace the alpine climbing lifestyle.

The boulder’s solid positioning on a small bench means protection is primarily through crash pads, and a solid number are recommended to navigate the landing zones comfortably. Though not extensive in route quantity, Boulder #4 offers a quality-over-quantity experience that highlights technical prowess along with nature’s quiet majesty.

This area is part of the larger Swissco Boulder district in the Indian Peaks, a renowned alpine climbing region that blends wilderness, remarkable rock, and a sense of remoteness that purists cherish. Conservation efforts and respect for the fragile high-altitude environment are crucial for maintaining Boulder #4’s pristine condition.

Visiting climbers should come prepared for a moderately challenging hike, unpredictable weather, and the high-altitude environment—staying hydrated and starting climbs earlier in the day is advised to avoid afternoon storms and strong sun. While the approach demands attention to navigation and bushwhacking, the payoff is a day spent on remarkable rock framed by sweeping mountain vistas.

Whether you are drawn by the call of classic climbs or the lure of an alpine adventure, Boulder #4 offers an unforgettable playground. It blends the intensity of bouldering with the serenity of high country, providing an experience that feeds your ambition and your soul in equal measure.