"Crackin’ Up Again offers an engaging single-pitch trad climb blending secure crack placements with technical slab moves. This route near South Platte balances adventure and control, ideal for climbers refining their multi-style skills."
Crackin’ Up Again stands out as a compact but rewarding climb on Inferno Slab, found within the Goose Creek area near Molly Gulch Campground, just outside South Platte, Colorado. This single-pitch route offers an engaging blend of crack climbing and technical slab moves, making it an excellent choice for climbers who appreciate hands-on trad sequences with a dose of subtle slab finesse.
From the ground, the route immediately captures your attention—a featured face rising steadily, leading into a clean, inviting crack. The rock’s texture feels alive beneath your fingertips, cool and solid, inviting careful cam placement as you ascend. You'll start by carefully threading 0.4 to #3 cams into the crack, a playful rhythm of jamming and locking off that connects body and rock. The climb doesn’t rush you but asks for patient precision, as you find security with each well-placed piece.
After committing to the crack, the route veers onto a slab section that teases your balance and footwork. Here, the rock demands confidence as you clip a single mid-route bolt and shift your focus to thin, deliberate moves. This slab portion may feel exposed but offers satisfying friction and a chance to practice efficient, precise edging. The final angle eases into another crack that’s welcoming and straightforward, guiding you to a 2-bolt anchor that lets you savor the top and the expansive views that stretch over the South Platte canyon.
The approach to Inferno Slab is straightforward yet worth planning. The trail from Molly Gulch Campground is a mix of forest paths and open stretches, 20-30 minutes that prepare you mentally for the climb ahead. Early morning or late afternoon offer the best temperatures, as the slab faces west and warms under the sun, while shade rolls in with the cooler hours. Bringing sturdy shoes with reliable slab friction and a rack tuned from small to medium cams will set you up perfectly. Hydration is crucial here, especially during summer’s dry spells; water sources near the campground provide a solid base for your outing.
Local climbers appreciate Crackin’ Up Again for its approachable 5.8 rating, which strikes a balance between technical challenge and fun. The move to clip the bolt en route adds a sense of exposure without excessive risk, making it a preferred starter for those getting into multi-style trad climbs. The route rewards those who keep steady focus on gear placements, footwork, and body positioning, a tangible step up from pure crack lines or slab-only routes.
Whether you're chasing a new personal best or just looking to blend crack climbing with subtle slab technique, this route delivers solid rock, practical gear challenges, and compact vertical adventure in the heart of Colorado's climbing country. Pack your rack, lace up tight, and get ready to engage with the rock in a way that both teases and strengthens your climbing toolkit.
While the crack provides solid cam placements, the slab section demands precise footwork and careful clipping. Risk of slipping increases if the rock is wet or dusty. Always check your anchors thoroughly and be prepared for limited holds on the slab climb.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat on the slab section.
Double-check your cam placements in the crack for security on the thin moves.
Approach via Molly Gulch Campground; the trailhead is well marked and takes around 25 minutes.
Plan for water and sun protection as the wall can get hot midday.
Bring a standard trad rack from 0.4 up to #3 cams to comfortably protect the crack section. A single bolt is present midway, and a 2-bolt anchor secures the top rap. The slab demands solid climbing shoes with good edging ability.
Upload your photos of Crackin’ Up Again and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.