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Dihedral Two: A Gritty Boulder Canyon Classic

Boulder, Colorado United States
crack climbing
bushy crux
single pitch
granite
Boulder Canyon
traditional protection
Length: 100 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Dihedral Two
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Dihedral Two challenges climbers along a rugged 100-foot corner on Boulder Canyon’s second tier. With a mix of solid crack moves and a bushy crux, this route delivers gritty, hands-on climbing framed by iconic Colorado granite."

Dihedral Two: A Gritty Boulder Canyon Classic

Dihedral Two invites climbers to confront a raw slice of Boulder Canyon’s second tier with an unpolished edge. This 100-foot, single-pitch trad route begins on a spacious ledge beneath a low-angle slab, setting the stage for a climb that demands both patience and resolve. As you ascend the slab, your fingers find holds along slick, sheltered rock before veering to a pronounced corner just right of the adjacent arete on Common Denominator. Here, the route asserts itself—not with effortless grace but with a rugged push through dense bushes that seem determined to slow your progress. The crux is a physical tussle through greenery clinging stubbornly to the crack system, rewarding climbers who come prepared to face the natural barricade.

The climb rises steadily up the corner, rewarding steady technique on hands and feet, then skirts left near the top to reach a well-used anchor shared with Common Denominator. This ledge provides a comfortable spot to belay or lower your partner safely, a crucial consideration on this extensive pitch. Dihedral Two doesn’t pretend to be pristine; its true character lies in the balance of solid crack climbing and the unpredictable challenge of vegetation management. For those who relish routes that blend technical moves with a bit of wilderness grit, this climb offers an authentic Boulder Canyon experience.

Protection extends up to 4 inches with some wider placements near the summit. This gear range allows for confident protection, though the presence of bushes and loose debris means climbers should double-check their placements and watch for snagged rope or gear. A pair of pruning shears in the rack can transform the route from a bush battle into a more fluid ascent, a testament to the climbing community’s ongoing relationship with this line.

Access to Dihedral Two is straightforward for locals: start from the Avalon area within Boulder Canyon, hiking a well-marked trail that climbs steadily through shaded forest and open granite slabs. Arrive early to avoid afternoon heat and maximize shade on the north-facing wall. The approach trail is moderately steep and takes roughly 20 minutes from the nearest parking spots.

The setting rewards climbers with a slice of classic Colorado granite and panoramic views of the canyon’s rugged ridges. Its remote feel, close yet tucked away behind a veil of bushes and granite teeth, makes this route especially rewarding for climbers looking to step off the beaten path without venturing too far. Safety calls for caution during descent—the route can be lowered from the anchor, but the full 100-foot rappel requires careful rope management to avoid entanglement in vegetation and cracks.

In all, Dihedral Two delivers an unvarnished climbing challenge that pairs technical crack skills with the unpredictable elements of Boulder Canyon’s natural jungle. For those prepared to prune and push through, it’s a solid 5.8 adventure that blends raw granite with a tangle of life, throwing down a gauntlet that rewards effort with satisfying exposure and a clear sense of place.

Climber Safety

Be vigilant during descent—the 100-foot lowering from the anchor requires caution to avoid rope catches in cracks and surrounding brush; also beware of loose debris near the crux bushes.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length100 feet

Local Tips

Start early to enjoy cooler morning shade on the north-facing wall.

Carry pruning shears to manage bushes that block key holds.

Double-check gear placements around wider cracks near the top.

Prepare for a 100-foot rappel with careful rope management to avoid snags.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:The 5.8 rating aligns with moderate crack climbing, but the bushy crux elevates the effort, adding an unorthodox challenge to otherwise solid terrain. Compared to nearby Dihedral One, which feels cleaner and more straightforward, Dihedral Two demands more persistence and vegetation navigation, making the grade feel slightly stiffer for those unprepared.

Gear Requirements

Bring standard trad rack with protection up to 3-4 inches, plus optional pruning shears to clear vegetation along the corner.

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Tags

crack climbing
bushy crux
single pitch
granite
Boulder Canyon
traditional protection