"Casual Delight offers three pitches of varied alpine trad climbing on Mount Evans, blending steady technical moves with straightforward terrain. It’s a solid choice for climbers seeking a balanced adventure amid high country vistas and classic Colorado granite."
Casual Delight unfolds across the rugged contours of Mount Evans, offering three pitches of approachable yet varied alpine trad climbing. The route starts with a subtle ramp that arcs left of a prominent left-facing corner, inviting climbers to navigate a delicate balance between technical moves and steady progression. As you ascend, the rock’s texture provides reliable holds, and the quiet alpine air carries a sense of anticipation. The second pitch reveals a hand-sized crack that challenges your gear placement skills and technique. Here, the chimney moves require confident body positioning, while the crack expands to accommodate larger protection—#4 to #6 cams find secure homes in this stretch if you choose to bring them, though the route can be frequented with a lighter rack. The pitch rewards careful route reading and efficient gear management, reminding climbers that alpine trad demands both patience and precision. The final pitch eases back into simpler terrain, leading left and upward to an easy walk-off that blends the exhilaration of the climb with a practical descent. Surrounding views capture the open, windswept character of Abyss Lake Basin, where the grandeur of alpine rock meets the open sky and whispering mountain breezes. Casual Delight offers an accessible introduction to alpine trad on Mount Evans, calling for solid fundamentals and respect for nature’s quiet challenges. Whether you’re stepping into alpine climbing or seeking a measured adventure off the beaten path, this route balances engagement and ease in an inspired landscape.
Careful attention is required on the chimney pitch where the rock can be loose in places and gear placements demand thoughtful assessment. Weather can change rapidly above treeline, so prepare for sudden storms and carry adequate layers. The final walk-off, while straightforward, crosses uneven terrain that calls for cautious footing.
Aim to start early to avoid afternoon winds typical at higher elevations.
Bring a varied rack, focusing on larger cams for the chimney section on pitch two.
Wear sturdy approach shoes for the rocky walk-off—trail is uneven but well-defined.
Keep track of weather forecasts; sudden alpine storms can roll in quickly.
A standard traditional rack supplemented by larger cams (#4, #5, #6 BD) is recommended for secure protection, especially on the chimney pitch where placement gestures from hand-sized to wide gear.
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