Dags in Beanland unfolds on Seam Rock, a striking formation perched several miles up the dirt route beyond Combat Rock in the Estes Park Valley of Colorado. The climb begins with a straightforward approach: park at a small pullout on the left side of the dirt road and head northward, scaling rugged slabs that drink in sunlight and whisper with the touch of mountain breeze. The trail soon dips into a shallow draw before rising again along water-streaked rock faces, signaling you’ve reached base camp for this multi-pitch adventure.

This four-pitch route, rated a moderate 5.8, offers a balanced mix of traditional and sport climbing that appeals to a range of climbers. The rock here demands attention—solid, textured faces and quartz streaks that catch your eye as you move upward. Pitch one initiates a low-angled scramble up and right, eventually crossing a blank patch marked by a lone bolt. From here, the route bends left, following a large quartz vein that provides runout but manageable moves to a comfortable ledge, offering a brief rest where the mountain catches its breath.

Pitch two steps up the challenge with a short crack and a steeper slab packed with bolts. The climbing becomes more technical and deliberate here; balancing on tiny holds feels like a conversation with the rock itself. The pitch skirts past a roof, hugging the feature’s left side, then climbs a steep dike, passing bolts that mark the way to a secure two-bolt anchor.

Pitch three maintains momentum with playful climbing up fun, bumpy rock. Protection placements spread out, requiring thoughtful gear placements but well worth the effort for the movement and exposure. This pitch ends on a generous ledge shaded by pine trees, a natural perch to soak in the surrounding valley and prepare for the final push.

Pitch four is where the route files its signature. Starting with a small roof that challenges your flexibility, it continues up to a twisted juniper clinging to the rock like an old guardian. A crack system beckons next, inviting hand jams and finger locks, leading to a face strewn with perfect holds and two well-placed bolts. The pitch culminates on a ledge with an optional belay before tackling a series of bulges protected by solid gear. The angle eases off for the last 40 feet, giving space to stretch and savor the summit. The full pitch is a long, rewarding 200-foot dance on excellent stone.

Protection on Dags in Beanland requires a compact rack complemented by quickdraws for bolts peppered along the route. Climbing veterans recommend two 60-meter ropes for rappels, as fixed anchors spaced strategically along the descent make abseiling straightforward yet demanding precision. The anchors, painted camo green to blend with nature, create a reliable rappel line starting from the summit and descending through ledges and pockets marked by twisted junipers and quartz veins.

Seasonally, late spring through early fall offers the best conditions. The route’s eastern exposure catches morning sun, easing cold starts but shielding climbers in afternoon shade. Approach trails are unpaved but well-defined, a brief but gritty reminder that this climb lies far from the bustle, rewarding those willing to invest effort before the first hold.

Dags in Beanland stands out as a solid option for those seeking classic slab and crack climbing in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering practical challenges on high-quality rock without overstating difficulty. The blend of short technical cruxes, ample protection, and scenic views makes it an ideal mid-level climb for trad and sport enthusiasts looking to balance adventure with reliability.