"Bridget the Midget in The Bank area of Shelf Road offers a steep, technical 50-foot sport climb blending sharp face moves with a clean corner finish. Perfect for climbers seeking a punchy 5.9 test in Colorado’s famed sandstone."
Bridget the Midget rises sharply on the cliffs of The Bank section in Shelf Road, offering climbers a brief but engaging 50-foot pitch that tests both technique and composure. This sport route threads a steep, slightly overhung face before veering right into a clean, right-facing corner that leads to the anchors of the adjacent Silver Rain climb. Though short in length, the line demands precise footwork and deliberate movement, presenting a classic Shelf Road challenge where technical climbing meets the raw texture of Colorado’s sandstone.
The approach to the route starts from the main trail in The Bank area, winding through low scrub and desert flora that crunch underfoot. Sounds of the gentle wind brushing against exposed rock and the occasional bird call replace the city hum as you near the cliff’s base. Once on the wall, the rock's gritty feel provides solid friction, a blessing given the steepness. This route’s 5.9 rating is slightly soft but still offers a punchy crux in the middle, where body positioning and attention to subtle holds make the difference between smooth ascents and challenging struggle.
Protection is straightforward with five fixed bolts spaced well along the route, ending at a shared anchor with Silver Rain. Climbers familiar with Shelf Road’s quality will appreciate the secure hardware, allowing them to focus fully on movement rather than gear placement. The area’s dry climate means rock is usually firm, but occasional sandstone flake awareness is necessary.
Ideal timing for climbing Bridget the Midget falls in mid-spring through fall, as summer’s heat can become intense under the open sky. The south-facing wall catches the sun early but provides pockets of shade as the afternoon progresses, making morning climbs particularly comfortable. Because of the short approach and manageable length, this climb pairs well with other routes in The Bank, offering a solid warm-up or a focused mission for those seeking a quick, sharp test of sport climbing skills.
For safety, keep in mind that despite the quality protection, the compact number of bolts means clipping must be deliberate to avoid any unnecessary falls. Downclimbing the route is possible but best avoided—rappelling from the shared anchor is the standard exit strategy. Ensure your anchors are well inspected and that your rope is long enough to reach the ground safely.
Ultimately, Bridget the Midget delivers concentrated climbing on classic Colorado sandstone, blending accessible technical moves with the thrill of a sustained face-to-corner transition. It’s a great climb for those looking to sharpen sport technique in a curated, sunny spot within the Shelf Road system.
While bolts are well spaced and secure, be mindful of the exposed moves and avoid rushing clips. Rappelling is the safest descent; downclimbing can feel exposed and slippery, especially on sandstone with occasional loose flakes.
Aim for morning climbs to avoid afternoon heat on this south-facing wall.
Clip bolts carefully as spacing requires attention to avoid awkward falls.
Bring shoes with sticky rubber for optimal friction on steep sandstone.
Pair this climb with routes in The Bank for a productive half-day outing.
Five bolts protect the route with a shared anchor at the top connecting to the adjacent Silver Rain climb. No additional gear needed beyond a standard sport rack and quickdraws.
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