ELO offers a focused trad climb on the west face of South Formation at Button Rock, lying along the rugged North Fork of the St. Vrain River in Colorado’s St. Vrain Canyons. From the start on Electric Sky ledge, you quickly engage with two solid pods that guide your hands toward a crack that begins broad but narrows sharply from hand to finger size. The climbing demands steady balance and careful foot placement, particularly where the crack tightens and forces a subtle, off-balance maneuver. Below the final section, the crack closes up and exposes a short runout, testing both your nerve and protection strategy before the climb smooths out into an easier scramble to the chains. Though ratings mark this route at 5.9, the crux lies in the transitions and the precise gear placements required to manage the narrowing crack. A large #4.5 cam can be useful for key placements, though it's not mandatory.

The setting amplifies the experience: the St. Vrain River pulses below in defiant motion, urging you to climb with intent and care. The approach carries a palpable quietness broken only by rustling trees and the occasional call of wildlife, embedding the route within a steadily wild, unspoiled canyon landscape. Button Rock reveals itself as a destination for climbers ready to test traditional skills in a place where nature’s forces — sun, rock, and river — command respect.

For planning, prepare for a single pitch that climbs roughly 80 feet. The rock texture is solid but not forgiving of careless gear placements, so a range of cams to fit the tapering crack is recommended. Since the climb sits on a west-facing wall, afternoons bring warmer sun and light can be strong, making early starts favorable in warmer months. Remember to carry enough water; the approach and climb demand focused energy and hydration.

Experienced trad climbers seeking a compact, engaging challenge will find ELO a rewarding line. It balances technical movement with exposure and subtle protection challenges. The descent is straightforward but demands careful attention to terrain after leaving the belay chains. Overall, ELO blends natural beauty with technical rigor, making it a solid addition to your Colorado climbing plan.