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Clear Water Revival: A Crisp Ascent Along the River Wall

Golden, Colorado United States
bolt ladder
roof move
west-facing
granite
multi-pitch option
rappel descent
Length: 115 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Clear Water Revival
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Clear Water Revival combines a dynamic roof move with a precise bolt line in Clear Creek Canyon, delivering an engaging single-pitch sport climb. Perfect as a standalone challenge or the start of a multi-pitch adventure, it offers steady granite holds and scenic canyon views."

Clear Water Revival: A Crisp Ascent Along the River Wall

Clear Water Revival offers climbers a concise but rewarding taste of sport climbing along the River Wall in Clear Creek Canyon, Colorado. This single-pitch, 115-foot route starts with a dynamic move off an initial roof reminiscent of the nearby "River Walk" climb. From here, you follow a deliberate bolt line roughly 20 feet to the left of the "River Walk" crack system, finding rhythm and flow as the wall opens beneath your fingers. The rock’s texture demands firm but precise footwork, rewarding those who keep their balance high and eyes scanning for the next clip.

The granite faces here engage climbers in a tactile dialogue—granular holds beckon your grip while the sharp edges test your steadiness. The immediate surroundings carry the scent of scrub pines and the sound of Clear Creek’s current pressing eagerly below, almost daring you to ascend against nature’s persistent motion. The route’s position here allows for an expansive view of the canyon’s layered cliffs and the broader foothills, lending an open-air feeling that blends challenge with tranquility.

Though brief, Clear Water Revival stands as a perfect standalone sport climb or as the opening pitch for a longer day of climbing by linking it with the second pitch of "River Walk" and the "Right to Laugh" route. The bolted protection is confidently spaced with 11 bolts, supplemented by a couple of long runners to ease rope drag beneath the roof section. The anchors are solid two-bolt setups ready to hold your weight and gear.

Approach to the River Wall is straightforward, with a well-used trail cutting through sage and juniper. Expect about a 15-minute walk from the parking area, with clearly marked signs guiding you toward the cliff’s base. The terrain beneath is firm and mostly level, a comfortable space for prepping gear and mental focus before the climb.

Because the wall faces predominantly west, afternoons bring warm light and favorable conditions through spring and fall. Summer climbs here require morning starts to avoid the heat, especially on the exposed sections near the roof. Clear Water Revival’s rating of 5.9 holds true to the grade, balancing accessible moves with a few moments that demand attentive technique and steady nerves. The roof addition and traverse left add a dynamic texture that elevates the physicality slightly beyond a simple face climb.

Gear-wise, clip-ready quickdraws and runners to extend placements beneath the roof will smooth your ascent. Solid climbing shoes with good edging capabilities are a must given the granite’s firm but feature-sparse surface. Hydration and layered clothing will help manage temperature swings from valley floor to exposed rock.

Clear Creek Canyon’s climbing is recognized for its convenience and scenic draws, making the River Wall an appealing destination whether you’re fitting in a quick morning session or a longer multi-pitch day. Remember to check for local conditions and respect seasonal closures if present. Descending from the route is usually done by a single rappel from the two-bolt anchor, so bring a rappel device and rope of adequate length to avoid complications on the way down.

Whether you're a climber looking for a succinct sport challenge or a foothold into longer routes, Clear Water Revival equips you with both straightforward beta and an environmental embrace that evokes the raw, pulse-quickening nature of Clear Creek’s climbing culture.

Climber Safety

Pay close attention under the roof where rope drag can increase; use runners wisely. The two-bolt anchor is solid but requires familiar rappel technique to safely descend. Loose rock can occasionally be found near the trail, so approach with care.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length115 feet

Local Tips

Start early in summer to avoid afternoon heat on the west-facing wall.

Bring runners to extend draws under the initial roof to ease rope drag.

Check for seasonal access restrictions in Clear Creek Canyon before heading out.

Prepare for a single rappel descent from the two-bolt anchor.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9 rating fits well with the route’s demands. The initial roof and traverse left add a brief but real crux that lifts the difficulty above straightforward 5.9 slabs nearby. Compared to neighboring climbs like "River Walk," this route offers similar technical challenges but leans more into athleticism with its sustained bolt line.

Gear Requirements

11 bolts secure the line, with a couple of long runners recommended under the roof section to reduce rope drag. The anchors consist of a reliable two-bolt setup.

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Tags

bolt ladder
roof move
west-facing
granite
multi-pitch option
rappel descent