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Buckets of Rain: Sport Climbing in Clear Creek Canyon

Golden, Colorado United States
low angle slab
headwall crux
short reach challenge
single pitch
sport bolts
Length: 50 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Buckets of Rain
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Buckets of Rain offers a concise but engaging 50-foot sport climb set in the striking Clear Creek Canyon. Featuring seven bolts and a crux that challenges shorter climbers, it’s perfect for those looking to build technique on solid Colorado stone."

Buckets of Rain: Sport Climbing in Clear Creek Canyon

Buckets of Rain presents a clear, focused challenge to sport climbers visiting Clear Creek Canyon. The route begins with a few careful moves from the ground, guiding you onto a gently angled slab whose texture invites deliberate footwork and controlled balance. As you ascend, the wall tightens into a steeper headwall where the crux awaits — a demanding sequence that tests your reach and technique, especially if you're on the shorter side. The seven fixed bolts mark a secure line, allowing you to concentrate on your form without worrying about protection placements. Clear Creek Canyon’s rugged walls rise sharply against the backdrop of Colorado’s foothills, offering climbers a sense of isolation with the nearby hum of city life softly fading behind. The air is dry and sharp, carrying the faint scent of pine and sun-baked rock. This 50-foot single-pitch route fits smoothly into a day of climbing, whether you’re warming up or seeking a satisfying push just beyond 5.8 difficulties. Being a sport climb, it demands less gear fuss but invites full attention to movement and balance. Approaching the route, climbers will find a brief walk through scrub and a well-marked trail, keeping the transition from trailhead to rock swift and straightforward. Winds often sweep through the canyon, so timing your climb around midday to early afternoon maximizes sun on the wall, keeping holds dry and temperature comfortable. The descent is uncomplicated, involving a short walk back to the trailhead, making Buckets of Rain an accessible and rewarding choice for those looking to blend technical climbing with approachable logistics. Whether you’re returning for a quick session or testing your limits on a reliable Colorado sport route, it delivers a no-nonsense experience framed by a vivid mountain setting.

Climber Safety

Watch for possible loose rock on the approach and stay aware of tightening footholds on the slab. The crux requires controlled movement; rush it and risk slipping. Fall potential is minimal but avoid dragging the rope over sharp edges on descent.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length50 feet

Local Tips

Start climbing mid-morning to catch dry, warming rock.

Shorter climbers should be ready for the slightly longer reaches at the crux.

Wear shoes with good edging capability for the slab section.

Bring plenty of water; the trail can be dry and sun-exposed.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.9, Buckets of Rain offers a grade that generally matches its feel but will challenge climbers around 5.8 with its reach-dependent crux. The route’s slab-to-headwall progression provides a modest pump, suitable for those moving up from easier grades without surprises. Compared with other sport routes in Clear Creek Canyon, it’s straightforward, with protection that feels generous and safe.

Gear Requirements

Climb secured by seven bolts spaced to offer solid protection; minimal gear needed beyond quickdraws and standard sport rack.

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Tags

low angle slab
headwall crux
short reach challenge
single pitch
sport bolts