"Hideout Crack is a concise trad line in Glenwood Canyon that delivers clean crack climbing with moderate technical demands. Its accessible approach and solid protection make it an inviting choice for climbers refining their crack skills."
Hideout Crack offers a compact yet rewarding crack climb that invites you to engage with Glenwood Canyon’s rugged character up close. This 75-foot route darts upward along a clean, right-arching crack that demands technique and a steady hand. The stone here feels alive, each feature marked by weathered textures and a quiet grit that challenges you to find flow in its subtle variations. While the climb might be short, the slab topping brings a thoughtful finish where balance and smarts replace brute force. Climbing here is like a conversation with the rock, equal parts physical and cerebral.
Set on the western side of the canyon, this route rewards those who appreciate concise, well-protected trad lines with a straightforward approach. The access trail is gentle and approachable, making it easy to carry your rack without the strain of a long hike. Protection calls for a modest selection, primarily cams up to #2, fitting snugly into the crack’s clean seams. Anchoring is secure with two bolts on the summit slab, giving confidence when reaching the top.
The climb’s rating at 5.8 matches the steady technical demands rather than pure physical exertion. The crack varies enough to keep fingers and hands busy, making gear placements feel natural yet essential. For southern Colorado climbers, it offers a solid introduction to trad crack climbing away from busier walls, ideal for both warming up or brushing up on crack skills. The rock’s openness invites enough light and warmth, so late morning to early afternoon sessions maximize comfort here.
To make the most of Hideout Crack, come prepared with sticky shoes and a rack ready for finger to hand-sized cams. The trailhead is just a short drive from Glenwood Springs, an outdoor hub well known for its mix of climbing, hiking, and river adventures. Once at the base, the sound of the flowing Colorado River nearby sets a lively soundtrack, and the sudden gusts echo through the canyon walls, reminding you of the wild setting this climb commands. While not a long route, the sensation of moving steadily up a clean crack can cement your appreciation for traditional climbing style.
If you find yourself craving more climbing nearby, Glenwood Canyon’s landscape offers other trad lines and sport climbs, but Hideout Crack stands out for its directness and natural flow. It’s a perfect day climb to test your gear placements or simply get a feel for Colorado’s limestone offerings without the complications of multi-pitch logistics.
With a short approach, reliable protection, and engaging moves, Hideout Crack rewards focused attention. Keep your gear light, your shoes sticky, and your mind sharp to enjoy this polished slice of Glenwood climbing.
Although the route’s protection is reliable, the crack requires careful gear placement to avoid loose or insecure cams. The slab finish can be slick if wet, so avoid climbing in damp conditions and watch for slippery footholds near the anchor.
Approach trail is short and accessible—plan about 10-15 minutes on foot from the parking area.
Wear sticky climbing shoes to maintain traction on the slab finish.
Best climbed late morning to early afternoon for optimal sun exposure on the wall.
Double-check rack for finger to hand-sized cams; the crack widens and narrows requiring variable gear.
Bring a small trad rack running up to a #2 Camalot to secure placements in the crack. Two-bolt anchor tops the route for easy belay setup or rap.
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