Clean Corner offers a straightforward yet satisfying traditional climb along a broad left-facing crack that ascends an inviting corner formation. Set within the quieter reaches of East Animas near Durango, Colorado, this route appeals to climbers seeking a relaxed day on mostly clean rock with manageable protection. While not heavily trafficked, the climb retains a raw character with some patchy sections of dirt and loose rock, adding a bit of real-world grit to the experience. The crack honors the classic 5.8 grade, making it accessible for intermediate trad climbers looking to sharpen crack skills without confronting overwhelming technical moves.

Approaching Clean Corner, the surrounding pine trees and the scent of dry earth set a calm outdoor mood, while distant offers glimpses of rugged Colorado peaks. The climb stretches about 90 feet, contained in a single pitch that invites a steady, confident pace. Protection relies on a standard East Animas rack, with a #4 Camalot recommended for the wider sections of the crack. Placing gear here requires attentive eyes, as the crack’s width can fluctuate, demanding careful sizing and occasional adjustment.

The route’s modest traffic translates into a more intimate rock surface and a touch of nature reclaiming the edges, giving climbers a tactile connection to a less polished line. As you move upward, expect a blend of solid holds with the occasional loose chip or dusty section, so a prompt cleanup and testing each hold remains essential. Beyond the physical challenge, the climb invites a moment of breathing space, immersed in the solitude of the East Animas area with its quiet forests and distant mountain horizons.

This climb works best in the spring through early fall, avoiding wet conditions that may degrade the rock quality or increase the dirtiness of the cracks. Early morning or later afternoon ascents are ideal to sidestep the peak sun and to enjoy cooler temperatures. Climbers can expect a 20 to 30 minute moderate approach, starting at a trailhead just outside Durango that threads through a mixed conifer forest, softening the transition from town to wilderness.

Clean Corner rewards those who bring patience and a desire for a traditional crack climb with minimal crowds. It’s perfect as a warm-up pitch on a morning or a solo highlight for those exploring East Animas’s quieter walls. Combine this climb with other nearby moderate routes in the area for a day rich in both challenge and scenic calm.