Tucked within the urban contours of Glenwood Springs, the Higher Power of the Brick commands a unique blend of grit and challenge that sets it apart from the region’s natural rock offerings. This 45-foot single-pitch trad climb unfolds across weathered brickwork that dares the climber to engage directly with the city’s aged architecture. The route’s handjams thread through cracks between individual bricks, some generously sized to cradle a full hand, offering a tactile connection to a climbing experience that feels equal parts craft and conquest. Approach with respect—both to the fragile brick material and local regulations—as urban climbing here operates in a grey zone, risky but rewarding for those who move with awareness.

The route’s rating of 5.8 suggests approachable difficulty for any trad climber comfortable with hands-on placements and modest risk. Protection demands creativity: slinging bricks and testing the integrity of each hold is part of the challenge, turning traditional gear placement into a lesson in adaptability. Be cautious of brick quality; some sections reveal crumbling edges that require light-footed movements and a steady sense of balance. Unlike natural cliffs, the brick surface may feel both familiar and foreign, its texture uneven yet surprisingly clickable for protection.

Glenwood Springs itself acts as an unlikely backdrop, its vibrant rhythms a distant hum beneath the climber’s concentrated moves. This is not a route for the faint-hearted or those seeking polished granite, but for explorers eager to negotiate the interface between urban structure and climbing ethos. Timing a session during cooler hours will improve grip and minimize heat-induced wear on the brick. Wear solid, grippy shoes and bring adjustable slings and small cams tailored to awkward placements. Hydration remains critical; the city's dry mountain air can sap energy faster than expected.

This climb is a rare urban adventure demanding respect and preparation. While the exhilaration comes from conquering brick rather than high alpine walls, the sense of accomplishment is just as real. Climbing Higher Power of the Brick is a nod to ingenuity and the spirit of exploration, rewarding those who dare to find the climbing line where others see only wall.