Dragonfly stands as a rewarding single-pitch trad climb carved into the rugged character of The Brown Wall, one of the well-regarded faces along Thunder Ridge. The route unfolds through a series of crack systems—flakes, corners, and offwidth challenges—that demand both technical jamming and confident face moves. As you start your ascent, the climb immediately engages you with a right-facing corner, where solid jams fit snugly into cracks before reaching an offwidth segment. For those who opt to skip the wideness, the route offers an alternative with playful, face climbing moves that test balance and technique.

The crux lies in navigating this offwidth section gracefully, which rewards patient climbers with a ledge resting spot, a welcome break to absorb the surroundings. The climb then continues up a low-angled corner, narrower yet steady, pulling you toward a two-bolt anchor that’s slung and equipped with a rap ring for an easy descent. The protection is straightforward and reliable throughout the climb, making it inviting for climbers comfortable with placing cams and nuts.

Dragonfly is an excellent choice for those looking to stretch their trad skills on steady jams while enjoying the distinctive rock of West Creek’s brown sandstone. The approach to The Brown Wall is moderate, set within the wide-open expanse of South Platte, Colorado. Here, clear skies often hover, and a gentle breeze sweeps through the ridge, carrying the crisp mountain air and the occasional call of distant wildlife.

To prepare for Dragonfly, you’ll want a cam rack extending up to a #3 cam, with doubles in smaller sizes (#1 and #2 C4s) for secure placements in the varied crack widths. While a #6 cam is listed as optional, many climbers find face bypass moves fun enough to avoid it altogether—though bringing a #5 cam can prove useful, especially on those transition moves that require solid protection as you clip or move past tricky holds. Comfortable shoes with sticky rubber and a light rack make this route approachable without sacrificing challenge.

Weather in this part of Colorado favors spring through fall climbs, with early mornings providing shade on the brown sandstone wall before the sun climbs overhead. The route’s southeast-facing aspect means the rock warms pleasantly post-sunrise, but afternoon sun can turn the wall into a suntrap; plan your climb accordingly to avoid overheating. Descending is straightforward via rope rappel from the bolted anchor, a quick and safe getaway that makes it a perfect after-work or day-trip objective.

Dragonfly blends technical jams with uncluttered face climbing, crafting an experience that’s equally engaging for emerging trad climbers and those returning for a crisp, moderate climb in a stunning mountain landscape. It’s a climb that invites movement and focus, rewards good gear management, and leaves you with the imposing views stretching over West Creek’s wild terrain. Take your time, trust your gear, and let the climb teach you the dance of cracks and corners on The Brown Wall.