Daredevil carves a memorable line up Difficult Wall, an imposing cliff perched above the Difficult Campground near Independence Pass, Colorado. From the ground up, this 90-foot single-pitch climb demands steady technique and attentive gear placement. The approach winds through open alpine terrain that gradually shifts toward rocky outcrops, offering climbers a visual preview of the route’s bold features against the rugged mountain backdrop.

The climb begins with moderate moves that ease you into the rhythm, but the route doesn’t linger in comfort for long. A sweeping left undercling move below the prominent roof requires precision and composure, pushing your heart rate just when you think the crux is past. This step-around sits low enough to define the pitch but high enough to require confident footwork and focus on body positioning.

Above the roof, the rock blossoms into a clean dihedral channel lined with pockets and edges that invite well-placed jams and delicate smears. The finish is as engaging as it looks from below, a sustained push through solid 5.9 terrain that challenges both your endurance and problem-solving skills. Fixed pins peek out along this last section—a reminder of veteran ascents—and chain anchors crown the top, providing a reassuring endpoint.

Protection demands preparation: large cams and hexes form the backbone of your rack. While the lower section welcomes some carefully placed wires to lighten your load, the critical protection under the roof leans on a #3.5 Camalot or equivalent big cam to safeguard the tricky traverse. The rock quality encourages thoughtful placements, rewarding those who test each nut and cam carefully.

Difficult Wall sits within a quiet corner of the alpine landscape, making the climb less trafficked than many Colorado classics but no less rewarding. The expansive views at the summit stretch over Independence Pass, offering clear mountain vistas with the afternoon light cutting in crisp shadows on the cliff face.

Ideal timing for Daredevil is late spring through early fall. The wall’s east-facing aspect catches morning sun, melting frost and warming holds early in the day, though afternoon climbs remain pleasant in summer’s heat. The approach track is straightforward but rocky, demanding good boots and attention to footing, with about a 20-minute hike from the campground to the base.

Bring plenty of water, as the alpine air can dry you out swiftly, and plan for variable weather. Lightning is a known hazard around Independence Pass in summer storms, so early starts and weather checks are crucial. Descent involves a single rappel from the bolted anchors or a carefully chosen downclimb on solid rock with some exposed sections, best suited for climbers comfortable with multi-step scrambles.

For climbers seeking a solid 5.9 trad climb with a bit of spice, Daredevil delivers consistent movement, memorable features, and the kind of alpine exposure that leaves you satisfied at day’s end. Whether ticking off grade milestones or simply soaking in Colorado’s rugged scenery, this route is poised to test technique without demanding the extremes of higher grade climbs.