Coffin Crack stands as a gritty, one-pitch trad climb demanding precision and confidence amid Clear Creek Canyon’s rugged backdrop. Beginning on a slab beneath the unmistakable stem box and bombay chimney, the route swiftly tests your gear-placement skills and route-finding instincts. The initial crack section grips with variable protection: expect to thread a generous collection of nuts and TCUs while negotiating an unstable block that holds just enough to keep you honest. Higher up, a hand crack leads to the base of the iconic stem box — a physical, committing move that rewards your calculated efforts. Setting a solid medium nut before engaging the box is crucial, as the climbing demands both steady hands and mental focus. From there, a large nut secures your passage out right to the arete where the rock eases into simpler terrain, letting you push toward the top with more confidence. This ascent isn’t for the novice; proficiency in placing tricky protection is essential to minimize risk on the less secure features.

Located in the popular Sports Wall section of Clear Creek Canyon, the climb offers more than technical challenge — it places you directly into a landscape where weathered granite walls catch afternoon sun and Clear Creek’s distant murmurs energize the atmosphere. Approach trails wind through pine-scented slopes, setting the stage for a climb that balances raw engagement with accessible wilderness. Top roping might be feasible from nearby chains or gear anchors, but most climbers find topping out and belaying from sturdy trees or boulders above to be the most straightforward option.

For those eager to test steady hands and strategic gear placement on a moderately demanding 5.9 crack, Coffin Crack delivers an authentic Clear Creek experience. Prepare with a rack full of nuts and TCUs up to #2 cams, and expect to weigh every placement carefully. This route rewards climbers who come ready to read the rock and commit to well-calculated moves. Clear Creek’s draws for climbers aren’t just about difficulty but immersion in a textured environment where every hold and crack tells a story of endurance and connection.