Hon Solo offers an accessible yet engaging alpine trad climb carved into the granite faces of Silver Basin’s Main Buttress. The route lives up to its name, inviting climbers to embrace the spirit of soloing with a manageable 5.8 grade spread across two pitches. Starting beneath a series of roofs, the first pitch challenges with varied paths that let you test your skills without overcommitting—perfect for those easing into alpine trad or guiding newer climbers. Approaching in shoes rather than heavy boots, you’ll find yourself negotiating a roof pull on offwidth crack with just enough bite to keep the experience lively but not overwhelming. Once past the crux of the roofs, the terrain relaxes onto a large slab with a left-leaning crack that suggests a natural belay stance—a solid platform where you can regroup and take in the Colorado Basin’s crisp mountain air and sprawling views.

The second pitch dial’s down the difficulty slightly to 5.6, guiding you up that left-leaning crack before opening onto easier headwall climbing. It’s a route that balances effort with reward: climbing here feels deliberate but never strained. The option to ascend a dihedral system at the top—rated closer to 5.9—adds an unspoken invitation to push harder for those feeling bold, though in approach shoes it’s wise to keep to the more straightforward crack systems heading right. This choice ensures climbers finish on solid ground without sacrifice to the alpine atmosphere that defines this stretch of the Main Buttress.

Protection on Hon Solo remains straightforward with a singles rack of cams and nuts catering well to the crack variations and slab placements throughout. The gear placements are generally secure, but some sections require attention and patience as cracks slightly narrow or roofs redirect your lines. Rock quality is typical of Silver Basin’s granite—solid with occasional lichen patches that remind you to stay alert but lend character to the climb. The approach itself is unpretentious but specific: reachable in a moderate hike taking under an hour from the nearest trailhead, with GPS coordinates providing reliable navigation through the alpine forest leading into granite cliffs.

This climb merges technical climbing with natural surroundings that challenge your judgment and skills smoothly rather than abruptly. The exposed roofs daring you to commit and the calm slab sections that encourage playful routefinding reflect a climbing experience well suited to alpine newcomers seeking confidence and adventure. As with any route in the Colorado high country, timing is critical—clear summer days with dry rock offer the best conditions while early mornings provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Hydration and stable footwear are essential since approach shoes work but limit some harder moves. Remember, the descent is straightforward but requires clean rappels or a cautious downclimb, so keep your ropes and anchors in good order.

Hon Solo is a quietly rewarding journey up granite that echoes the freedom and focus of alpine trad climbing. With its approachable grade, vivid features, and panoramic setting, it’s a route that invites both learning and enjoyment. Whether guiding a student or sharpening your own skills, this climb stands out as a solid choice in the Main Buttress collection.