"This compact sport route on Quarry Wall at the Bank offers a focused 40-foot climb featuring a key hollow block move and smooth sandstone face. It’s perfect for climbers honing technique or seeking a mindful ascent in the scenic Shelf Road area."
Set against the rugged backdrop of Quarry Wall at the Bank, just outside Canon City, Colorado, "Es ist einfach, nichts zu tun" offers climbers a direct and approachable sport route that invites focus without fuss. The climb rises 40 feet over a single pitch, presenting a clean blond sandstone face sculpted by time, waiting to test your precision and composure. From the base, you launch upward onto a ledge that demands a decisive move onto an exposed hollow block, classified as C1, emphasizing control and balance. This move connects you to the main face, where four well-spaced bolts mark your ascent straight to stout chained anchors. The route’s short length belies the crispness of each movement; it’s a climb about rhythm and trust in your gear.
Quarry Wall at the Bank occupies a valuable place in the Shelf Road corridor, a region known for its consistent sandstone quality and accessible approaches. Here, the desert air carries the scent of dry earth and sun-baked rock, while the clear blue skies frame sweeping views of Colorado’s canyon country. The climb enjoys stable conditions most of the year but shines brightest in spring and fall when temperatures balance on the edge of comfort. Since it faces west, late afternoon light carves long shadows and cools the surface, ideal for those who prefer less heat during their ascents.
Preparation for this route is straightforward yet essential: sturdy, sticky climbing shoes will maximize friction on the smooth sandstone face, while a moderately sized quickdraw rack—five or six draws—covers your needs. The fixed bolts and anchors reduce uncertainty but require a steady hand and focused movements, especially on the initial ledge "move". Because the route is short, pacing yourself early means avoiding rushed mistakes.
Approaching Quarry Wall is a manageable hike under 20 minutes from the main parking area along Shelf Road. The trail skirts low scrub and open sandstone slabs, with a few loose sections that remind you to stay attentive. Once at the base, you’ll find the starting ledge distinctive, its hollow block inviting you to step up and enter this modest yet compelling climb.
Whether you’re sharpening sport climbing fundamentals or looking for a warm-up before pushing harder lines nearby, "Es ist einfach, nichts zu tun" delivers a crisp connection with the rock. Its low star rating belying the quality of movement makes it an ideal pick for climbers who appreciate precision over pump, and a chance to engage directly with the elemental challenge of Shelf Road sandstone climbing.
Watch for sun exposure on the exposed ledge at the start, and exercise caution on the hollow block move to avoid slips. After rainfall, sandstone may be fragile or slick—wait until it dries completely before climbing.
Approach via the main Trailhead parking on Shelf Road; it's a moderate 15-20 minute walk with some loose rock.
Avoid intense afternoon sun by starting climbs late in the morning or during cooler spring and fall months.
Check for recent rock conditions—sandstone can become fragile after heavy rain, so dry weather is best.
Plan for a single-pitch descent; rappelling from the chained anchors is straightforward and safe.
This route requires a rack of about five quickdraws to clip the fixed bolts and anchors securely. Shoes with good friction are essential for the smooth sandstone sections. Rope length of 60 meters is sufficient, with chained anchors for safe, straightforward rappel or walk-off.
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