Carving a line through Skinner Mountain’s granite face, the Dave Bell Memorial route offers climbers a focused, sport climbing challenge that balances technical moves with accessible vertical terrain. This single-pitch, 90-foot route is an excellent gateway for climbers eager to sharpen their precision and footwork amid Colorado’s rugged creekside backdrop. The climb begins just a short approach left of a neighboring route, sharing a sturdy anchor that reflects the cooperative spirit on these well-maintained walls. From the base, the rock edges invite measured movements as the path veers upward and rightward, settling onto a broad ledge that climbers know well from adjacent climbs.

The crux emerges between bolts three and five, presenting a compact but memorable sequence demanding focused balance and controlled pressure on fragile footholds. This section provides an ideal arena for climbers fine-tuning their technique: every placement matters, and loose confidence is quickly called into check. Beyond this challenge, the terrain eases considerably, unwinding with moves closer to 5.6 difficulty, rewarding steady pacing and mental composure.

Surrounding the route, the atmosphere amplifies the experience—Skinner Mountain’s proximity to Buffalo Creek means the steady murmur of flowing water accompanies each ascent, the creek’s cool breath mingling with pine-scented air. Sunlight shifts along the wall throughout the day, shifting shadows and highlighting the rock’s textural detail, helping climbers read holds with clarity.

Access is straightforward, with well-worn trails leading from a nearby parking area to the base within minutes. The approach is short but shifts over rocky soil and pine needles, calling for solid shoes and mindful steps to avoid slipping. With seven quickdraws recommended to protect this pitch fully, climbers should come prepared with a standard sport rack. The protection ranges in placement ease, with bolts spaced to encourage confident clipping but rewarding focus where subtle footwork matters most.

The Dave Bell Memorial climb caters to those seeking both a practical test of skill and a taste of the area’s quieter climbing scene. This wall's south-east aspect captures morning warmth and afternoon shade, making spring and fall the best seasons for comfort and rock quality. The descent is mellow, involving a straightforward rappel from the bolted anchor, well-marked and safe, allowing climbers to savor the approach and exit with ease.

Whether sharpening your technique or ticking a well-loved local line, this route delivers the right blend of approachable movement and subtle challenge. With the creek’s steady background soundtrack and the steady call of the mountain air, the Dave Bell Memorial climb on Skinner Mountain is a compact adventure that leaves its mark through skill, focus, and the crisp embrace of Colorado’s climbing terrain.