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Can You Hear Me Now? - Colorado Sport Climbing at Recovery Wall

Denver, Colorado United States
arete
sport climbing
single pitch
crystal alcove
South Platte
Colorado granite
intermediate
rock protection
exposed
sunny afternoon
Length: 70 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Can You Hear Me Now?
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Can You Hear Me Now? delivers a crisp 70-foot climb on Colorado's Recovery Wall, offering both a challenging arete and an easier corner for a distinctly rewarding sport climbing experience. Ideal for intermediate climbers, this route pairs solid bolts with granite features for a balanced test of skill."

Can You Hear Me Now? - Colorado Sport Climbing at Recovery Wall

Set against the rugged backdrop of Colorado’s South Platte region, the climb "Can You Hear Me Now?" at Recovery Wall offers a direct shot into a compelling blend of physical challenge and visual reward. This single-pitch sport route stretches 70 feet up the stone face, inviting climbers to choose their path between two distinct lines: a striking, demanding arete rated near 5.9, or a more forgiving corner at 5.7 that leads steadily to the same elevated crystal alcove. The arete holds a special appeal for those seeking precise footwork and dynamic movement, while the corner provides a measured alternative to ease into the experience.

Bolted securely with around nine well-placed anchors, the climb strikes a balance between a bold push and safety, making it an accessible yet engaging test for intermediate climbers eager to sharpen technique on steep Colorado granite. Upon reaching the crystal alcove, climbers find a natural belay station that opens opportunities for additional pitches rated between 5.9 to 5.10 — perfect for those wanting to extend the adventure beyond the initial ascent.

Approaching Recovery Wall, expect a terrain that shifts from weathered pines to exposed rocky slopes, with the South Platte river murmuring somewhere below, daring you onward. The air carries the crispness of altitude, and the afternoon sun casts quick shadows on the face, so early starts are rewarded with cooler conditions. The wall’s southwest aspect means later climbs meet generous sunlight, but late summer afternoons may bring warmth that challenges your stamina and hydration strategy.

Ideal footwear is sticky rubber with solid edging capability to tackle the subtle holds along the arete and the solid jams in the corner. Hydration and layered clothing are musts, as weather in this part of Colorado can shift quickly, and the granite absorbs heat that can intensify exposure.

Locally, climbers appreciate Recovery Wall for its mix of solid bolts and natural features, allowing for confident protection yet a textured climbing experience that demands attention to body position and balance. The setting delivers sweeping views — pine-shouldered ridges and distant peaks — grounding the climb in a broader wilderness feeling without overextending into remote territory. It’s a solid outing for those looking to blend technique with a taste of Colorado’s rugged terrain.

For anyone ready to push the arete’s edges or settle into the corner’s flow, "Can You Hear Me Now?" stands as a reliable gateway to the South Platte’s sport climbs, well suited for after-work send sessions or weekend retreats. Preparation is straightforward: a rope capable of reaching the 70-foot pitch, quickdraws for the bolts, and the usual layers and water to keep pace with the mountain’s rhythm. The descent is simple — a single rappel or careful downclimb from the alcove anchors, but caution is advised on loose rock near the base.

This climb is not just a route; it’s a conversation with the stone, a test of your ability to read, trust, and move fluidly. Whether you choose the tension of the arete or the steadiness of the corner, your ascent here will echo the vibrant energy of Colorado’s outdoor climbing spirit.

Climber Safety

Though protection is straightforward with nine bolts, loose rocks near the base and the approach demand caution. The arete’s moves require sustained balance—falling here can be more demanding than the grade implies. Always check anchor conditions before your top-rope or rappel. Weather can shift rapidly, so prepare for cool mornings and the chance of afternoon gusts.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length70 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon heat on the southwest-facing wall.

Use shoes with precise edging to manage the delicate holds on the arete.

Hydrate thoroughly; altitude and sun exposure can quickly drain energy.

Carefully inspect the rappel anchors and watch for loose rock near the base during descent.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:While rated 5.9, the route’s challenge depends on choosing the arete or the corner. The arete pushes climbers into more technical footwork and dynamic moves, making the grade feel close to or slightly above standard 5.9 difficulty due to its sustained nature. The corner offers a softer 5.7 alternative but less thrilling movement. For those familiar with nearby Devil's Head climbs, this route offers a similarly solid bolt-based sport experience with a reliable granite texture.

Gear Requirements

Approximately nine bolts protect the pitch, spaced for confident clipping with quickdraws. The crystal alcove belay anchors provide secure top-out safety and access to advanced second pitches ranging from 5.9 to 5.10.

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Tags

arete
sport climbing
single pitch
crystal alcove
South Platte
Colorado granite
intermediate
rock protection
exposed
sunny afternoon