Adventure Collective

Help - A Friendly Introduction to Redstein's Easiest Pitch

Carbondale, Colorado United States
sport climbing
beginner friendly
slab
bolted
single pitch
sun exposure
Colorado sandstone
Length: 90 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Help
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Help stands out as the most accessible pitch on the Friends and Family Wall, blending steady movement with straightforward protection. It’s an essential climb for anyone ready to step into Redstein’s unique sandstone offerings."

Help - A Friendly Introduction to Redstein's Easiest Pitch

Stepping onto Help is like shaking the hand of the Friends and Family Wall’s most approachable climb. This 90-foot single-pitch routesets a welcoming tone for climbers easing into Redstein’s rugged escarpment, located just outside Carbondale, Colorado. Unlike the demanding vertical runs crowding the area, Help offers a steady progression that feels both inviting and purposeful. The climb begins just left of a distinct blocky pillar, a geological landmark that stands firm as your launch point into an evolving gradient. Initially, the terrain asks for focus, moving past steeper rock where footholds challenge your balance and hand placements confirm your control. Then, the route transitions smoothly into a long, slabby finish that lets you stretch out, inviting you to connect movement with breath against the sprawling backdrop.

The protection setup for Help consists of a straightforward line of ten bolts, arranged to offer confidence without clutter. Sport climbers will appreciate this run’s simplicity: no wild runouts, just well-placed clips that keep the adventure engaging but safe. This route functions as a prime gateway into the Redstein area, granting views of the surrounding red sandstone cliffs and distant peaks while also delivering the satisfaction of clean, consistent climbing.

Located at 39.20058 latitude and -107.23598 longitude, this climb falls within a larger climbing enclave in the Carbondale region—renowned for its mix of approachable sport routes and rugged traditional faces. The Friends and Family Wall takes its name from its accommodating nature, a space where climbers new to the terrain can gain confidence alongside veterans exploring their limits.

Planning your ascent means preparing for sun exposure on the slab finish during midday hours but enjoying shaded cooler moments near the route’s base. Footwear should lean toward grippy shoes with solid edging, as the slabby sections demand precision and steady footing. Hydration is key in the dry Colorado climate, especially during warmer months when the wall bakes in sunlight.

Approach is accessible by a well-maintained trail that weaves through sagebrush and low pines, requiring about a 10-15 minute hike from the nearest parking area. The trail reveals rising contours and a hint of the adventure ahead, setting your mindset for the climb without overwhelming the senses.

Help doesn’t just serve as a climb—it’s an introduction, an invitation to experience Redstein’s character without intimidation. Whether you’re testing your early sport climbing legs or seeking a solid warm-up, this route delivers clear movement, reliable protection, and a welcoming atmosphere under Colorado’s open sky.

Climber Safety

While Help benefits from solid bolting, the slab finish can make footing slippery when wet. Avoid climbing after rain or when the rock is damp. Additionally, start your climb early to reduce risk from prolonged sun exposure, and watch for loose debris near the base during approach.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length90 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid the intense afternoon sun on the slab sections.

Bring climbing shoes with crisp edging to handle the slab's friction demands.

Hydrate well beforehand; the route is exposed and dry during summer months.

Trailhead parking is limited—arrive early to secure a spot and enjoy a peaceful approach.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:At 5.8, Help offers a comfortable grade that rarely surprises with unexpected difficulty. The crux lies in maintaining balance over the steeper lower section before transitioning onto the more technical slab finish. Compared to other routes in Redstein, this grade feels approachable, making it an ideal choice for climbers expanding their sport climbing repertoire.

Gear Requirements

The climb is equipped with 10 bolts spaced to provide secure clipping opportunities throughout. No additional trad gear is necessary, making it an excellent choice for sport climbers honing their lead skills.

Share Your Ascent

Upload your photos of Help and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.

Tags

sport climbing
beginner friendly
slab
bolted
single pitch
sun exposure
Colorado sandstone