"Chimney Route delivers a gritty, single-pitch trad experience on Colorado’s North Table Mountain. With a mix of chimney and offwidth climbing, this 5.8 line blends raw rock texture and efficient protection in a well-sunlit, accessible setting ideal for intermediate trad climbers."
The Chimney Route at North Table Mountain’s Risk Area offers a direct, gritty trad climb that carves through the rugged Golden Cliffs with raw authenticity. This single-pitch route stretches approximately 45 feet, tucked into a clean corner system that demands a firm grip on chimney and offwidth techniques, combining physicality with straightforward movement. Starting with a spacious chimney that challenges you to maneuver your body weight with precision, the climb transitions mid-way into a tighter lieback and fist crack sequence that forces you to engage every muscle and test your gear placements. The rock’s texture is coarse sandstone, offering solid friction but requiring careful footwork as the surface varies from blocky jugs to narrower seams. As you reach the top of the corner, a dynamic leftward move leads to fixed anchors that share space with the adjacent route, easing the usual challenges of anchor building on trad climbs. The setting is open and sunlit for much of the day, with the warm Colorado light bringing out the golden hues of the cliffs and providing excellent visibility on holds and cracks. The climb carries a 5.8 rating that feels accessible for intermediate climbers but does include a crux where the chimney narrows and transitions into the offwidth lieback, demanding both technique and mental focus. Gear placements call for mid to large camming devices, necessary for secure protection in the coupling moves and wide seams, while small nuts prove less useful here. The approach to the base is short and straightforward, making it a popular pick for those wanting a quick, engaging climb without a lengthy hike. The route sits in a semi-exposed location, welcoming a cool breeze that heightens focus and helps manage exertion on warmer days. Though it’s not a gauntlet, climbers should stay mindful of loose flakes near the start and inspect gear placements diligently to ensure stability. Descending is easily managed via a single rappel from the shared anchors, with a simple walk-off back to the trail. Whether you’re sharpening trad skills or seeking a fast, rewarding outing with clear Colorado sunshine and solid rock, Chimney Route offers a well-balanced adventure that’s approachable yet never dull— a genuine slice of Golden’s climbing character, grounded in practical detail and raw exposure.
Watch for loose flakes and unstable blocks at the base of the chimney. Due to the offwidth’s tight moves, ensure gear placements are solid before committing upward. The anchors are fixed but double-check slings and rings for wear.
Bring medium to large cam sizes for crucial placements in offwidth and chimney sections.
Approach via the well-maintained trail from the North Table Mountain parking area—expect a 10-minute walk.
Check the sun position—morning offers cooler conditions on the climb.
Inspect loose flakes early on and place protection carefully to avoid rockfall risk.
Mid to large cams are essential for secure placements throughout the chimney and lieback sections. Two-bolt anchors with rings are fixed and shared with the neighboring route, simplifying anchor setup.
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