Don't Rain On My Parade is a compelling single-pitch trad climb located at Vertical Wall in the Vallecito Crags near Durango, Colorado. This route offers a concentrated burst of engaging face climbing across 45 feet of vertical rock. From the moment you toe into the first holds, the route demands precision and commitment, with the crux zone occupying the opening 20 to 25 feet. Here, the stone challenges your technique with edgy moves that reward balanced footwork and careful sequencing. The rock’s texture feels alive under your fingertips, gripping enough to build confidence yet testing your finesse.

Protection is well-placed but demands attention—key placements along the crux offer reassurance, though the gear stances afterwards open up, giving climbers needed breathing room before reaching the top. The line’s moderate 5.9 rating carries a bit of weight due to the technical demands and the necessity for smart gear selection. Climbers will want to have a rack with BD C3 cams up to #0.75 and bring along a single #3 cam for the larger placements. Currently, the route lacks a bolted anchor, but plans are underway to install one soon, so be prepared to set your own top protection or use a traditional belay setup.

Vallecito Crags sits quietly outside Durango, offering a steep, solid rock face that absorbs the sun well and presents clear climbing days even in shoulder seasons. The approach is straightforward, dropping onto solid granite that feels firm beneath boots and chalk alike. Surrounding vegetation adds a soft contrast to the sharp lines of the climb, where dry needles crunch underfoot and pine-scented breezes brush past, lending a grounded feeling to the upward push.

This climb is an excellent test for trad climbers looking to sharpen technical skills on compact, vertical terrain without lengthy approach hikes. Reaching the top rewards with open views over the Durango area, a subtle reminder of how climbing often pairs effort with expansive perspective.

Plan your ascent during stable weather, as wet conditions would significantly complicate the slick face climbing. Wear shoes that provide sticky rubber for toe precision and bring a full rack focused on small to medium cams. Hydrate well before setting off and be mindful of limited fixed protection at the anchors. With these considerations, Don't Rain On My Parade offers a memorable single-pitch experience that balances challenge and achievement gracefully.