"Fred Flintstone's Delight offers two pitches of engaging trad climbing near Durango, CO. Featuring a mix of crack climbing and a distinctive roof traverse, this route blends technical challenge with accessible approach, making it an appealing option for trad climbers eyeing the East Animas area."
Fred Flintstone's Delight offers a compelling two-pitch trad climb carved into the rugged landscape of East Animas near Durango, Colorado. The route begins by following a familiar finger crack that climbers may recognize from the nearby Betty climb. This initial pitch demands steady crack climbing skills as you ascend into the ledgy roof section. Here, the rock takes on a playful challenge—requiring a rightward traverse across the adjacent Stoneage Struggle route to reach a hanging belay station. The sense of movement across the rock feels dynamic, as if the stone itself invites you to shift your focus horizontally before pressing upward again.
The second pitch continues this rhythmic climb by veering upward and slightly left, reconnecting with the finishing moves of Stoneage Struggle. The lines flow in a way that blends technical crack work with body positioning, reflecting classic Colorado sandstone character with its somewhat variable rock quality. Expect moments that call for precise foot placements and thoughtful gear placements as protection can become challenging to find and trust.
Descending is straightforward but requires preparation—a single 60-meter rappel safely deposits you back to the base. This route is a fine option for climbers seeking a succinct, engaging trad climb with a balanced mix of moves and mental strategy within a beautifully quiet corner of the Bedrock area.
Access is convenient from Durango, making Fred Flintstone's Delight a solid choice for a half-day adventure that feels remote yet accessible. The surrounding terrain offers dryer, sun-exposed walls ideal for spring through fall climbs. Bring your standard trad rack, but anticipate some placements will test your gear skills, calling for smaller cams and precise nuts.
Whether you’re refining crack techniques or looking to expand your local favorites, this route delivers a rewarding experience framed by wide-open views and the raw textures of Colorado’s east Animas cliffs. Prepare well, move fluidly, and the rock will respond with steady challenge and quiet satisfaction.
The roof traverse requires care as gear options are limited and falls can swing. Double-check placements before committing and be prepared for a solid hanging belay setup. Rock quality is mostly stable but some sections near the traverse show surface erosion—test holds before weighting.
Approach from Durango early morning to avoid afternoon heat and maximize shaded climbs.
Bring a 60m rope for a single rappel descent.
Pack a rack with smaller cams and nuts to confidently protect tricky crack sections.
Wear shoes with precise edging ability for the roof traverse and smearing on less featured slabs.
A standard trad rack covers your needs, though protection placements require attention, particularly near the roof traverse and upper sections where gear can be sparse or tricky to place securely.
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