At the heart of Colorado’s Front Range, Chopless commands attention with its striking profile on North Table Mountain’s most prominent buttress. This single-pitch climb stretches 60 feet through a series of right-leaning corners, set beneath a sky that often shifts between intense sunshine and fleeting mountain clouds. Absent any fixed bolts along the route, Chopless challenges climbers to rely purely on their traditional gear placements, sharpening focus and skill as you ascend. The initial section demands low-angle scrambling over a blocky face—smooth yet unpredictable underfoot—before pushing into progressively steeper corner cracks that encourage hand jams and careful footwork.

The buttress itself is a rugged character, its weathered surfaces rough and textured, breathing Colorado's wild spirit into every hold. As you move upward, the corners wrap and twist, almost daring you to find the next secure nut or cam. The exposed position rewards climbers with panoramic views of the surrounding Golden cliffs and the sprawling urban edge beyond, while the rock’s cool granitic touch contrasts with the warmth of the afternoon sun.

Route protection is straightforward but demands precision: a standard trad rack suffices to safeguard your ascent, with placements offering reliable purchase amid the natural dimpled rock. At the summit, a two-bolt anchor welcomes climbers for a secure belay or rappel. This anchor perches atop a ledge that also attends to nearby climbs like "Resident Bush," "Traditions," and "CornFlake," forming a compact hub for trad enthusiasts.

Planning your approach involves navigating a well-trodden trail for about 15 minutes, beginning near North Table Mountain Park, where pine scents mingle with the crisp mountain air. Footwear with solid edging is vital here, as rock surfaces can vary between smooth slabs and sharp corners. Early morning or late afternoon climbs offer relief from the sun’s peak heat, and the occasional breeze sweeps the buttress, keeping the air fresh and energized.

Safety on Chopless revolves around respect for its natural state—there is no fixed protection along the route itself, so climbers must be comfortable placing gear on the fly. The rock is generally sound, but consistent assessment of placements ensures security. Since this is an outdoor classic that has avoided vandalism and bolt stripping, it preserves a raw authenticity that earns the respect of traditionalists looking for a direct, unaltered line.

Walking off after the climb follows an easy ledge toward the descent trail, but take caution; loose gravel and small scree patches make sure your steps remain deliberate. Whether you’re a seasoned climber hungry for a technical test or a trad enthusiast eager to sharpen your instincts in Colorado’s rugged mountain air, Chopless offers an encounter that blends challenge, beauty, and practical climbing sense into one memorable pitch.