"Getting Older offers a focused trad climbing experience on the River Wall with a short but engaging pitch filled with finger crack challenges and crisp moves under a distinct roof. It’s a perfect climb for trad enthusiasts aiming to test technique in Elevenmile Canyon’s rugged setting."
Getting Older is a compelling introduction to the rock at River Wall in Elevenmile Canyon, offering a straightforward trad climb that tests your footwork and crack skills along a compact, 40-foot pitch. The route begins with a series of flakes, inviting climbers into a tactile play of edges and grips that demand precise body positioning. Soon, you find yourself beneath a distinctive roof, split by a narrow finger crack which dares you to master delicate moves that blend balance and reach. The sequence here provides a gratifying mix of movement—technical yet accessible—before you face a choice near the top: veer left toward a solitary tree that marks a natural stopping point, or angle right to reach the anchors, giving you options depending on your comfort and style.
This route shines in its simplicity and the quality of the rock, which feels solid and receptive to traditional protection. Cams find reliable homes, with a gear range accommodating yellow Aliens through to #2 Camalots, ensuring you can cruise with confidence. The position of the climb on the River Wall offers an intimate connection to the rugged charm of Elevenmile Canyon—where the cold rush of the South Platte River below sets a lively soundtrack, reminding you of nature's pulse surrounding your ascent.
Approach here is straightforward but firm; a brief hike from the parking lot through forested paths delivers you to the base without fuss, allowing you to conserve energy for the vertical challenge ahead. The exposure is moderate, making Getting Older approachable for trad climbers stepping up into finger cracks while retaining enough complexity to keep the experienced audience engaged.
Looking ahead, timing your climb to hit early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the experience, as the sun plays across the textured rock, highlighting features and warming the surface. Caution is advised to watch for loose flakes near the roof section—though solid holds dominate, nature’s shifting forces require attention. A single pitch makes the descent effortless, with easy walk-off options that mean you can savor the climb without worrying about complex rappels.
Getting Older stands out as an accessible yet rewarding route—perfect for those aiming to sharpen trad skills or seeking a compact, quality climb paired with the quiet pulse of one of Colorado’s cherished canyons.
Watch for loose flakes near the roof section. Although the rock is generally solid, some flakes might shift under pressure. Always test holds before committing, and place protection early to manage the fall potential in this exposed area.
Start early or late in the day to avoid midday heat and catch the rock in soft light.
Bring a full rack of cams between yellow Alien and #2 Camalot to protect the finger crack and roof section effectively.
Inspect flakes around the roof carefully for loose holds before trusting them.
Approach trail is short but can be slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear and slow steps are recommended.
This climb requires a solid selection of cams, especially from yellow Alien to #2 Camalot sizes, which fit the crack system perfectly and provide secure placements throughout the route.
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