"Dialing For Dollars challenges climbers with technical jams and excellent gear placements across two engaging pitches in the iconic Colorado Flatirons. This trad climb blends steady crack climbing with strategic protection, perfect for those refining their trad skills amid sweeping ridge views."
Set against the rugged backdrop of Boulder’s Flatirons, Dialing For Dollars offers an engaging two-pitch trad climb that balances technical jams with solid gear placements. This route starts with a demanding left-facing corner where awkward hand jams challenge your approach, compelling you to commit early as you pull onto a low-angled slab. The tactile texture of the rock invites experienced climbers to trust their gear while navigating the beautiful flake and obtuse corner systems. Gear-up with a standard rack up to 3.5 inches, prioritizing cams, especially around the flake section where placements range from delicate 0.5-inch cams to robust 3-inch friends.
The first 120-foot pitch maximizes exposure without overwhelming, offering a rhythmic climb up cracks and flakes. You'll find yourself drawn left and slightly up towards diagonal cracks leading to a broad shelf — a comfortable belay spot secured with solid pro. Here, you momentarily step out of the direct line of fire from the overhanging junky corner above, catching your breath and surveying the exposure.
Pitch two extends roughly 70 feet, weaving left onto a striking band of horizontal cracks beneath a dark red stain on the wall. This section demands focused footwork and gear judgment, as you encounter an aged bong piton — a piece that clearly tells its story and should be backed up with nuts for added security. The packs of gear placed above ensure the belayer’s peace of mind as you finish on the ridge crest, preparing for descent.
Descending Dialing For Dollars requires a little navigation savvy. The route ends on a ridge that drops off to the east, where a short scramble leads to a northern trail, then west through a notch, and finally down south to the base. This approach and descent keep climbers connected to the terrain’s natural contours while avoiding unnecessary exposure.
Flatirons climbing brings an outdoors experience that merges solid technical climbing with accessible terrain and spectacular views. Climbers can expect a climb that demands respect but rewards with quality rock, reliable protection, and approachable pitches. Ideal for parties looking to sharpen trad skills or anyone seeking a step up from beginner routes, Dialing For Dollars offers a satisfying blend of challenge and flow in a hike-in iconic Colorado landscape.
Watch for the old piton on pitch two; it’s weathered and should not be trusted alone. Always back it up with additional pro. The descent scramble involves loose rock and steep sections, so take care to avoid slips, especially in wet conditions.
Bring long slings to reduce rope drag, especially around the flake on pitch one.
Ensure your small cams are in good shape for awkward jam placements low on the route.
Back up the old piton on pitch two with nuts for added safety.
Descend cautiously via the east scramble and north trail; the notch can be tricky after rain.
A full standard rack including cams up to 3.5 inches is essential, with emphasis on smaller cams (.5") for the initial jams and a solid 3" cam for the flake section. Long slings help with rope drag on the second pitch. Nuts or small cams are ideal to back up the aging piton near the top of pitch two.
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