Constrictor stakes its claim just off the more familiar Hypotenuse climb in Boulder Canyon, Colorado, offering an intense single-pitch challenge that demands both steady nerves and precise footwork. Starting slightly left of a broad, clean left-facing dihedral, this route immediately sets itself apart by veering up and right into what feels like a rock feature daring you to take its narrow, steep path known as the "Constriction."

From the ground, the climb looks intimidating—a steep bulge guards the heart of the route, and the surrounding rock seems to close in, creating a natural funnel that compresses your options for movement. As you begin, the holds are solid but spaced enough to test your confidence. Moving up the easy face exposes you to the quiet crack running through the center of an overhanging, curving dihedral, a line that feels ready to catch the fingertips of anyone willing to commit.

The crux arrives with the bulge, where excellent handholds invite power and clean technique. Here, the rock feels alive, offering just enough purchase to crank through, but any hesitation allows the angle to press in. A large hold marks the endpoint of this effortful section, a small reward before smoothing onto easier terrain. From there, the route trends slightly left and upward, guiding you toward the finish with a mix of subtle edges and face holds.

Though short, this climb demands focus. The rock’s texture feels reassuringly solid, and the protection is straightforward if you come prepared. For top-roping, lengthy slings prevent rope drag around the natural constriction, while the trad rack needed for placing gear should include standard sizes suitable for the crack features here.

Boulder Canyon itself is a no-nonsense outdoor playground, where routes like Constrictor offer a direct connection to the rock’s raw personality. The climb’s location a few minutes from town means easy access without losing the remote feeling as you step into the cool shade below the dihedral. Timing your climb for morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid the heat that lingers when the sun sits high over the Continental Divide.

Approaching Constrictor involves a brief stroll from popular parking areas, covering well-trafficked paths that wind through classic Colorado forests. The ground underfoot is a mix of packed dirt and loose rock, requiring sturdy footwear and attentiveness through the short hike. Once at the base, the sheer openness of the creek below merges with the jagged nearby walls, energizing a quiet but intense atmosphere.

Whether you’re tightening a harness for your first trad ascent or seeking a solid warm-up for longer climbs nearby, Constrictor bites with enough challenge to sharpen your skills. Its straight-to-the-point nature encourages swift yet calculated moves, making it a noteworthy addition for climbers who enjoy crack climbing that tests grip and balance under a compressed roofline.

Use long slings to clip your top rope anchors, especially if you’re avoiding rope drag around the constricted section. Keep an eye on your foot placements—loose rock is minimal, but precision will keep your momentum steady. This climb isn’t about flashy moves; it asks for quiet concentration, delivering a slice of Boulder Canyon’s tougher side through a single compact pitch.