"Brain Cloud carves a sharp arete along North Table Mountain, blending technical precision with moderate 5.9 difficulty. This short but memorable route delivers quiet focus and rocky character just west of Golden’s famed cliffs."
Perched along the rugged edge of North Table Mountain, Brain Cloud, also known as Shadow Arete, offers climbers a focused, technical single-pitch challenge that slices through Colorado's iconic Golden Cliffs. This 45-foot sport climb is defined by a sharp arete standing about 40 yards west of the main access trail that runs between Table Top and Industrial Buttress. The rock’s tight angles and textured face demand precision and balance, rewarding steady feet and solid footwork. As you ascend, the cool shadow cast by the arete contrasts with the sun-drenched golden sandstone, giving this route its name and a distinct character. The bolts are spaced comfortably but sparse—five in total—leading to a two-bolt anchor stationed on a ledge roughly 15 feet below the summit. This setup invites climbers to adopt a thoughtful approach to protection, emphasizing rope management to avoid sharp edges and reduce wear.
The climb’s location offers more than climbing alone: the surrounding Golden Cliffs present an austere, elevated landscape where pine trees stand as silent witnesses, and distant city views remind you of civilization’s proximity to wild rock. The approach is brief but can be uneven, requiring sturdy footwear and alert footing. Timing your climb in the morning can mean cooler temperatures and less sun beating down on the rock, while afternoon outings offer warmer conditions but a brighter, more exposed wall. Always bring extra slings—longer, 10-footers excel here—to extend placements and preserve your rope’s integrity.
Brain Cloud is approachable for those comfortable at 5.9, making it a solid step up for intermediate climbers aiming to test their edge skills without needing a multi-pitch commitment. The route is sport and top-rope ready, welcoming both quick sends and careful onsights. While it may not be a high-star classic by local ratings, its mix of straightforward climbing and subtle technical demands makes it a worthy puzzle amid the notable offerings of North Table Mountain.
Prepare for this climb with a firm harness, several quickdraws, and at least two long slings. Hydration is key, especially in Colorado’s dry climate, and an early start avoids the afternoon sun that can heat sandstone rock surfaces. Be alert to the ledge positioning of the anchors; belaying from below reduces risk and enhances partner safety. With proper preparation, Brain Cloud reveals a neat, satisfying climb crowned by expansive views, perfect for those looking to sharpen skills on a shorter, distinct route in one of Colorado’s best-loved climbing corridors.
The two-bolt anchor is located on a ledge roughly 15 feet below the top, requiring a careful belay setup to avoid falls onto the ledge below. Use long slings to manage rope drag and reduce friction against sharp edges. Check weather conditions to avoid slippery rock when wet.
Start early in the day for cooler rock and less direct sun on the arete.
Bring long slings to extend protection and reduce rope abrasion on edges.
Approach in sturdy footwear; uneven terrain requires steady footing.
Set belays on the ledge below the summit for safer rope management.
Five bolts secure this 45-foot climb to a two-bolt anchor placed on a ledge about 15 feet below the summit. Long slings (10-foot) are recommended to minimize rope drag and protect the rope from rock wear. Climbing can be done as a sport climb or top rope; caution is advised during belay due to anchor placement.
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