"Hesitantly Decisive carves a quieter path through the Upper Tier of The Bihedral in Boulder Canyon. This single-pitch trad climb demands thoughtful gear placement and steady technique, perfect for climbers seeking a practical challenge with fewer crowds."
Hesitantly Decisive offers a measured yet engaging trad climbing experience tucked in the Upper Tier of The Bihedral area in Boulder Canyon, Colorado. This 100-foot, single-pitch climb extends as a subtle finishing option following the more recognized Heterohedral route, inviting climbers to push a little further on a path less traveled. The route threads its way slightly left and upward through a sequence of intermittent cracks and flakes, demanding careful gear placements and steady progression through variable terrain.
Begin your ascent above the first pitch’s corner, where the rock softens into less defined holds but rewards attention with moderate challenge. The cracks here appear sporadically, requiring vigilance to find secure placements in an area where protection is available but sparse. Gear, when placed thoughtfully, prevents long falls, though it’s not abundant enough to entirely allay risk if footing slips or a move goes awry. This adds an extra layer of focus, encouraging climbers to respect the principles of smart placement and careful movement.
The climb courses a few body lengths left of bolted routes such as Dan’s Line and Group Therapy, avoiding their fixed hardware and preserving a more natural ascension. At the top, the route opens up to a generous ledge system where climbers can take a breather and set up a belay from anchors shared with neighboring climbs, most commonly Group Therapy.
The surrounding environment reflects Boulder Canyon’s rugged charm—sunlight dapples the rock faces, while intermittent breezes carry the distant sounds of wildlife and the rustle of pine. The wall’s northeast aspect means you’ll find balanced light conditions in morning hours, with cooler shade as the day wears on, offering a comfortable climb through variable seasons.
After topping out, descending is straightforward but demands care: two rappels will return you to the base with enough rope length to avoid swing hazards. Familiarity with anchor setups and rappel hardware is recommended to ensure a smooth exit.
Given the route’s moderate but precise demands, Hesitantly Decisive fits well into a Boulder Canyon day that seeks solid traditional climbing without the crowds of more popular routes. Bring a rack built for standard trad placements, focusing on nuts and cams that fit thin to moderate cracks. Prepare for shifting protection opportunities and steady footwork where holds can be subtle. Hydrate appropriately, as the approach and climb can sap energy under the Colorado sun, and consider early start times to avoid afternoon heat.
In all, this route offers a practical challenge balanced with the quiet rewards of a lesser-traveled line. It invites climbers ready to engage actively with the rock and planning their protection carefully, rewarding patience and presence with a clear sense of accomplishment atop one of Boulder Canyon’s distinctive buttresses.
The protection along the route is spotty; falls can result in contacts with ledges or the ground if gear isn’t well placed. Pay close attention to anchor quality at the top and ensure your two-rappel descent is set up with backed-up anchors.
Start early to enjoy cooler temperatures and balanced light on the northeast-facing wall.
Carry a standard trad rack; gear spots are limited so place firmly to avoid long falls.
Two rappels from the anchors at the top lead back safely to the ground—double-check your rappel gear.
Approach with durable hiking shoes for the rocky trail and moderate brush.
Expect sparse gear placements along the climb; occasional but reasonable protection keeps falls from becoming dangerous if carefully placed. A rack focused on small to medium cams and nuts is ideal.
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