Fun 'n' Games offers a refreshing trad climbing experience on the Southwest face of The Red Slab in Clear Creek Canyon, just outside Golden, Colorado. Unlike the steep, overhanging routes typical in the area, this three-pitch climb presents a lower-angle face that rewards steady technique and careful gear management. As you approach the wall, the moderate-sized face draws your eye, its rugged features hinting at hidden challenges behind a facade that is more approachable than it seems. The first pitch remains shaded until afternoon, allowing for cooler climbing in the morning, while the second and third pitches enjoy early sun, warming the rock during the day.

The route begins about 30 feet right of the large chimney on the left side of the face, where you'll follow a crack-like system ascending somewhat left but trending slightly right according to local topos. Loose rock underfoot demands attention, especially on the first pitch where pro placements are present but not abundant. Your goal on P1 is to reach a large ledge roughly 150 feet up, protected by a #0.5 Camalot belay. The angle is modest but engaging enough for sustained stemming and crack moves.

Pitch two introduces a step up in difficulty and a tenuous runout that requires confident gear placements and focused movement. After moving right into a prominent right-facing dihedral, opportunities for protection thin, testing those nervous about runouts. Fixed small cams mark crux sections, and the bulge you'll surmount is rated 5.9-, giving the pitch a PG-13 feel for less experienced leaders. The dihedral itself demands precise stemming and the ability to utilize sparse gear placements, including small wires and alien cams. This pitch rewards climbers who enjoy continuous movement and problem-solving on less obvious holds. A large ledge at the top offers gear options for your next belay, but scrambling off here is exposed and not generally recommended.

The final pitch involves a short scramble up and right to a dead tree, then ascending a dirtier, steeper crack for about 30 feet at 5.7+. Alternatively, a few feet left lies a shallow, right-facing dihedral with similar difficulty and protection. This pitch feels more straightforward after the delicate moves below and leads you to the summit.

Descent is via rappel from now bolted anchors at each belay station, a significant safety update that preserves the climb's adventure while improving security. The hike out slides left along loose terrain—approximately 300 meters—to return to the base.

Protection needs range wide: expect to bring wires, cams up to a #4 Camalot, and doubles in smaller sizes like 0.5 and 0.75 for the best placements. This gear selection reflects the route’s variability and the spotty nature of some of the protection, especially on pitch two. The climb’s position in Clear Creek Canyon means it benefits from close proximity to Denver and Golden, with easy access from US Highway 6. Parking just east of the bridge under The Little Eiger provides a practical starting point, followed by a well-marked trail leading to the base.

Fun 'n' Games is a solid option for climbers who want to test their trad skills in a setting that’s both scenic and approachable. It blends moderate sustained climbing with pockets of technical moves that push your traditional climbing abilities without overwhelming. The route’s southwest aspect makes for pleasant mid-morning to afternoon climbing, and the mixture of shady and sunny pitches gives you options for managing heat.

Keep an eye out for loose rock and the detached block near the P2 anchor that’s been noted by local experts. As with all trad routes, commitment and attention to detail on protection are vital to a safe and enjoyable ascent. With its combination of family-sized wall, manageable length, and varied climbing, Fun 'n' Games stands out as a noteworthy multi-pitch venture for those exploring Clear Creek Canyon’s diverse climbing options.