"Finish Carpenter is a focused single-pitch trad climb on Mechanical Man’s wall known for solid rock and dependable protection. Short but technical, it pairs well with neighboring pitches to extend the experience in the verdant South Fork of St. Vrain Canyon."
Finish Carpenter offers a sharp, engaging pitch on the Mechanical Man wall, where clean lines and reliable protection draw climbers seeking a straightforward yet satisfying challenge. Located in the South Fork of St. Vrain Canyon near Lyons, Colorado, this trad climb stands out for its excellent rock quality and thoughtful gear placements that make the 60-foot ascent manageable but rewarding. Though on the shorter side when tackled alone, Finish Carpenter can be linked seamlessly with one of the dihedral pitches on Tier Two to extend the adventure, boosting its value to a solid three stars.
The approach leads you through well-marked routes like Antifreeze, Emission Testing, or The Tooth, which provide varied ways to position yourself at the base. The standard rappel station offers a precise entry point, with a scramble rightward to a blocky ledge below the obvious corner where the climb begins. As you step onto the rock, the texture is firm and consistent, promising steady friction as your fingers find protection in cracks ranging from finger to hand size. The dihedral’s features with its subtle overlaps and jogs require careful gear placement, encouraging longer runners to reduce rope drag and keep your line clean.
The climb rewards patience with a tidy rhythm, moving up and back to the starting anchor or a belay spot perched atop large boulders secured by a cordalette. The route’s approachable nature and reliable protection make it a valued option for trad climbers who want to sharpen technique on solid rock without overreaching, while its moderate 5.9- rating hints at a step above beginner-friendly but comfortably within reach for intermediate climbers.
Mechanical Man's wall stands as a quiet gem within the St. Vrain Canyons, offering an accessible climb in a setting defined by forested slopes above the canyon and crisp mountain air. Spring through fall is the preferred season, with morning starts allowing climbers to avoid the afternoon sun that can warm the slab sections intensely. Rappel stations are straightforward, but the descent demands attention since the blocky ledge below can require careful footing. This spot balances excitement with a measured sense of security, making Finish Carpenter an ideal pitch for those looking to blend practicality with the thrill of efficient trad climbing in Colorado’s rugged foothills.
Watch your footing on the blocky ledge below the start and maintain vigilance for rope drag around the swooping overlaps. The rock quality is strong but staying attentive to gear placement is key to a safe ascent.
Approach via standard rappel station, then scramble right to the blocky starting ledge.
Combine with Tier Two dihedral pitches for a longer climb.
Start early in the day to avoid intense afternoon sun on the slab.
Double-check placements as some gear spots can be tricky due to the dihedral’s corners.
Protection ranges from finger to hand sizes and is mostly available overhead. The dihedral includes overlaps and jogs, so bring a few longer runners to minimize rope drag.
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