"Crash Test Blondes is a short, sharp trad climb on North Table Mountain that challenges your layback skills and gear placement on basalt. It’s a concentrated dose of technical moves capped by a rewarding summit ledge."
Crash Test Blondes offers a brief but intense taste of traditional climbing on the rugged basalt cliffs of North Table Mountain near Golden, Colorado. This single-pitch route invites climbers to engage directly with the rock’s raw personality, beginning with a series of ledges that lead you up to a distinctly sharp layback crack demanding both finesse and focus. The crack, tight and articulate, tests your technique as you carefully negotiate tension between hands and feet. Loose rock near a flake requires caution—feel every move, commit with control. Mantling onto a small ledge before cruising the blocky crack to the peak of the Basalt and Battery pinnacle completes the climb with a satisfying summit experience. While short, the route’s character stems from its bold moves and the subtle challenge of securing reliable protection amidst the basalt’s natural features.
Situated within the sun-soaked Golden Cliffs area, this climb rewards climbers with sweeping vistas of the Front Range foothills and a quiet sense of exposure under clear Colorado skies. The basalt’s texture—a mix of sharp edges and solid blocks—offers an engaging tactile connection to the mountain. For trad climbers seeking a straightforward but memorable line, this route demands respect despite its modest length. Prepare for tight placements with mid-sized cams and steady footwork, especially on the layback section where slip-ups can quickly remind you of the basalt’s unforgiving nature.
The approach to Crash Test Blondes is short and accessible, allowing for an afternoon adventure without committing to a full day. Timing your climb during cooler parts of the day is advised, as the sun beats down on the exposed rock during midday. Bring extra water and tape for your fingers to protect against the abrasive texture. While the route lacks length, it delivers concentrated excitement and a solid challenge that fits well into a varied day of cragging on North Table Mountain.
This climb is a perfect stop for those building confidence on traditional gear placements and looking to stretch their technique on layback moves. The nearby area offers multiple lines to explore, making it an ideal destination for both newcomers and experienced climbers looking to sharpen fundamental skills with real rock feedback. Embrace the rawness of this classic short pitch—the rock here dares you to move precisely, hold tight, and finish strong.
Be vigilant about the loose flake near the layback crack; avoid pulling directly on it and maintain three points of contact especially when mantling onto the ledge. The basalt can be sharp and unforgiving, so wear appropriate gloves and tape where needed. The approach is easy but the route exposes you to sun and wind, so stay hydrated and watch for sudden weather changes.
Inspect the loose flake carefully before trusting it; use caution on the mantle moves above.
Approach early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun on exposed basalt.
Tape your fingers to prevent abrasions from the sharp edges on the crack.
Scout the top ledges from below to plan your mantle and exit strategy smoothly.
Bring a set of mid-size cams, focusing on #1 to #2 sizes to protect the layback crack and the blocky sections above safely.
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