HomeClimbingFully Flared

Fully Flared: Bold Chimney Climbing on Sturm Hall

Denver, Colorado United States
chimney
multi-pitch
urban climbing
flare
crack climbing
solo friendly
Length: 75 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
2
Location
Fully Flared
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Fully Flared challenges climbers with a flaring chimney on Sturm Hall’s south side, combining precise body positioning and a rarely climbed second pitch that finishes through a roof ladder. It’s a bold, approachable trad climb just moments from Denver’s urban center."

Fully Flared: Bold Chimney Climbing on Sturm Hall

Fully Flared offers a gripping chimney climb right on the south face of Sturm Hall at the University of Denver campus. This route invites climbers into a narrow vertical cleft that widens just enough to challenge your balance and technique. The chimney’s back wall leans outward, pushing you to engage your body fully, testing your foot jams and hand stacks in a concentrated, physical way. Starting on the first pitch, expect steady chimneying movement where your limbs must constantly adapt to the uneven flare, a welcome change from standard box chimneys that hug more tightly.

The second pitch is a hidden gem—rarely attempted but worth the extra effort. It ascends through a small roof and up a ladder system that demands control and focus to top out. This segment adds a bold finish that elevates the overall challenge, making Fully Flared a unique two-pitch experience. The climb totals 75 feet, providing a quick yet intense push suitable for climbers comfortable with chimney techniques and looking for something beyond the straightforward.

Protection is minimal here; climbers often solo with a crash pad below, trusting their skills and the short downclimb from the adjacent 'Pegboard' route for descent. This adds an element of calculated risk to the climb’s character and requires solid judgment and confidence. The area itself is compact and urban, providing an accessible training ground while still feeling like a proper adventure.

Completed under open skies in Colorado’s clear mountain air, Fully Flared invites climbers to feel the walls breathe and shift beneath their hands. The route’s distinct flare seems to resist being tamed, flirting with every move to keep you engaged. Perfect for climbers who want a brief but memorable crack climbing session with a little extra spice. Bring sturdy shoes with sticky rubber to grip the chimney walls, and prepare mentally to stay calm in tight, awkward spaces where body positioning reigns supreme.

Whether you’re warming up your trad skills or seeking a technical challenge close to campus, Fully Flared offers a practical yet rewarding route. Early morning ascents benefit from cooler temperatures and less pedestrian traffic, while afternoon light highlights the rich texture of the sandstone. Keep an eye on weather; the chimney can feel more daunting when damp, and footwear grip becomes even more critical. This climb stands as a solid choice for an urban trad session with character and just enough exposure to excite without overwhelming.

Climber Safety

Soloing with a crash pad increases risk—ensure you’re confident in chimney techniques and assess the downclimb conditions on the 'Pegboard' carefully before descent. Be wary of loose rock in the off-width flare and avoid climbing when the rock is wet or slippery.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches2
Length75 feet

Local Tips

Start early in the day for cooler conditions and less foot traffic on campus.

Wear climbing shoes with sticky rubber to maximize grip inside the chimney.

Check the wall’s dryness as damp rock greatly reduces friction and chimney control.

Be comfortable with chimney moves and solo climbing techniques before attempting.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9 X
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9 X rating reflects both the physical demands of the flaring chimney and the sparse protection available. The crux centers on navigating the outward flare and the committing, roof-covered second pitch. Compared to traditional chimneys in the region, Fully Flared feels stiffer due to its exposure and unusual shape, adding a mental edge to technical moves.

Gear Requirements

Minimal gear required; solo with a crash pad suggested. Use solid footwork and chimney techniques to manage the outward flare. Downclimb 'Pegboard' route to return safely to ground.

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Tags

chimney
multi-pitch
urban climbing
flare
crack climbing
solo friendly