HomeClimbingEasy Out

Easy Out at Bucksnort Slab: A Classic South Platte Trad Challenge

Evergreen, Colorado United States
slab
trad
single pitch
bolt protection
granite
technical
South Platte
Length: 120 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Easy Out
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Easy Out is a brief but striking trad climb on Bucksnort Slab’s granite slabs, featuring technical slab moves and a secure bolt at the crux. It invites climbers to refine footwork and slab strategy while immersed in Colorado’s rugged South Platte terrain."

Easy Out at Bucksnort Slab: A Classic South Platte Trad Challenge

Easy Out offers a focused taste of traditional climbing on the weathered granite of Bucksnort Slab, tucked into Colorado’s South Platte corridor. This single-pitch 5.8 route demands respect despite its modest rating, with a sharp slab move at the lone bolt challenging climbers to balance precision and patience on finely textured rock. Approaching from the left weakness outlined in local references, the climb unfolds through a series of ramps and a zig-zagging crack that carries you steadily upward towards a bolted anchor perched just above Prickle's Problem. This climb rewards technical slab skills and thoughtful route reading, making it a solid introduction to the South Platte’s granite slab style.

The approach delivers a quiet walk through ponderosa pines and scrub, anchoring the route in a landscape where nature seems to hold its breath, watching every move. The rock’s firm texture is both a guide and a test, encouraging climbers to focus on foot placement and body tension. Though rated PG13 for protection, Easy Out calls for careful rack selection—a standard trad set complemented by the bolt to manage exposure and provide assurance at the crux.

For those eyeing adventure beyond the pitch, a rarely climbed second pitch reportedly continues to the summit, but most climbers opt to rappel from the bolted anchor. The climb’s character lies in its balance between straightforwardness and subtle difficulty, a reminder that slab climbing requires finesse as much as strength.

Planning your day to hit this climb means considering seasonal dryness—the slab performs best in stable, dry conditions to avoid slips, while mid-morning to afternoon sunshine warms the face just right for confident movement. Bring sturdy footwear with sticky rubber and stay hydrated; the altitude and sun can take a toll quickly.

While the bolt hints at easier passage, many find the moves just above it to be the toughest part of the climb, pushing climbers to refine their slab technique. Partners can easily spot each other from the base, fostering a safe and supportive environment perfect for climbers stepping into trad challenges with a solid safety net.

In all, Easy Out stands as a concise, technical outing offering a direct connection with Colorado’s storied granite slabs—an approachable but earnest test of slab strategy and mental focus tucked into one of the state’s trusted climbing areas.

Climber Safety

Protection is sparse with only a lone bolt and standard trad gear—careful placements and controlled movement are critical. The granite slab is unforgiving when wet, so climbing in dry conditions is essential to avoid slipping hazards. The approach is straightforward but keep an eye on loose rock near the ramp sections.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length120 feet

Local Tips

Approach from the left weakness to find the easiest access to the bolt.

Wear shoes with sticky rubber to maximize grip on the slab.

Avoid climbing when the rock is wet, as the slab becomes dangerously slick.

Partners can spot the leader from the ground easily, enhancing safety.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8 PG13
Quality
Consensus:Although rated 5.8, the moves at the bolt present a sharper challenge that edges beyond a straightforward slab climb. The crux demands precision balance and confidence, making the grade feel stiff for some climbers. Compared to other South Platte slabs, Easy Out stands out for its minimal pro and technical slab movement, requiring focused footwork uncommon in routes with this rating.

Gear Requirements

A standard trad rack suffices along with a single bolt marking the crux zone. The protection is minimal so careful placement and steady movement are essential.

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Tags

slab
trad
single pitch
bolt protection
granite
technical
South Platte