Rising sharply above Old Stage Road, Devil's Slide is a granite dome that invites climbers straight from the car into a world of sun-soaked stone. Just a short drive from Colorado Springs, this roadside gem blends immediate access with engaging climbing, drawing both seasoned trad climbers and bold route developers in search of new lines.

Climbing at Devil's Slide is anything but dull. The granite quality is generally solid, with reliable texture underfoot and a range of cracks—finger, hand, and even burly fist cracks—that carve through interludes of slab and face. While some loose flakes linger, careful route-finding and attentive movement bring reward in the form of secure jams and elegant slab moves. The dome sits sunlit through much of the day, making it an attractive choice for winter outings, though snow and water can collect at the upper reaches. For those who relish early starts or cool weather sessions, this exposure keeps climbing in prime condition, with warm rays fending off the chill even when other areas remain cold.

Trad gear is essential here. The slabs invite you, but without traditional protection and anchor-building skills, many lines would be off limits. This practical challenge—setting safe belays and creative anchors above sweeping granite—creates both a training ground for confident trad leaders and a blank canvas for those with experience drilling and bolting new routes. Devil's Slide is known not only for established classics but also for possibilities: gaps between cracks and slabs await the touch of those ready to pioneer.

Two standouts beckon from the list of classics. "Devil on Horseback" (5.7) offers approachable movement and enjoyable flow—often a first choice for visitors breaking into the terrain. "Lightning Bolt Cracks" (5.9) demands a firmer grip and steadier nerve, cranking through more formidable crack systems that challenge technique and commitment in equal measure. Both are rated at three stars, promising memorable sequences and engaging natural lines.

Access is remarkably straightforward. From the Broadmoor, head up Old Stage Road—a winding ascent out of the city, giving way to forest, expansive views, and outcrops. As you crest a section with a parking lot facing east, marked by scattered boulders and a distinctive seven-foot spire, drive just a bit further. Watch for the unmistakable profile of the granite dome on your right. There’s a small pull-off that holds two cars—quiet, close, and utterly convenient. From there, you can rack up and belay almost directly from the roadside, making the approach almost unbelievably short for the quality on offer.

Stories linger in the bedrock here. The name "Devil's Slide" comes from its geologic mischief—historically, slabs of stone broke free and thundered down to bury train tracks below. This intersection of natural drama and human passage gives a unique weight to the setting, a reminder that climbing here is as much about reading the rock’s moods as ticking off routes.

Though its low elevation and all-day sun mean you can climb at Devil's Slide year-round, bring patience for changeable conditions near the top, especially after winter storms. Some water seepage and lingering snow may challenge descents. All walk-offs are most safely done to climber’s left—a broad, manageable retreat that returns you quickly to the road. Take care near the edge; the exposure is real, and loose flakes occasionally surprise.

Whether you come to sample the area’s cracks, take on the established test-pieces, or chase the potential of unclimbed lines, Devil's Slide stands out for its blend of adventure and practicality. You’ll find rewarding movement, wild Colorado views, and an energizing connection between city and stone. Above all, the area holds the allure of challenge—physical and mental—matched by the glow of the granite as you climb into the sun.