"Honey Pot offers a dynamic single-pitch climb in Mill Creek Crag with options ranging from 5.9 to 5.10c. Whether you prefer sport or trad, this short route challenges technical skills while providing reliable protection and a scenic Colorado backdrop."
Honey Pot stands as a concise yet potent climb positioned within the rugged embrace of Mill Creek Crag, near Dumont, Colorado. Though brief, its 70-foot pitch packs a punch for those who favor sport and top-rope routes that reward technical finesse and bold moves. The climb offers a range of challenges, with variations that scale from 5.9 to a more demanding 5.10c, allowing climbers to tailor their experience within a single route.
The rock is solid, with reliable protection bolted in 2016, presenting a confident ascent for sport climbers. Trad enthusiasts can expect some good cam placements, but should be ready to encounter sections pushing past 5.9 difficulty when leading on gear, as the route is known to bump into the lower 5.10s depending on the variations chosen. Chains anchor the route at the top, simplifying descent or setup for multi-pitch endeavors.
Approach to Honey Pot is straightforward, with an easy trail leading to the right side of the crag, where it’s possible to avoid the climb altogether and simply top-rope. This makes it attractive for groups looking to balance safety with exposure to more technical climbing. The crag’s position near Dumont offers sweeping views of Colorado’s rugged contours, where pine trees stand watch, and the crisp mountain air carries the faint scent of earth and stone.
Climbers will appreciate the variability here: pick the easier line to ease into the crag or opt for the steeper, more technical moves that stretch technique and strength. The compact nature of the route means short bursts of concentrated effort rather than drawn-out endurance. This makes Honey Pot an appealing option for climbers passing through the region or those wanting to sharpen their skills before heading to longer, more remote routes.
Given the altitude and exposure, timing your climb to avoid the hottest midday sun brings not only comfort but preserves grip. Early mornings or late afternoons in spring through fall provide the best conditions. Rockies winds can pick up, so layering is recommended. Keep hydration on hand and plan for a prompt retreat if the weather shifts rapidly.
Honey Pot’s blend of sportive convenience and trad potential makes it a versatile entry point to climbing around Dumont. Its manageable length, solid protection, and options for varied difficulty ensure it caters to a range of climbers, from newer climbers stepping up to 5.9 sport to experienced adventurers chasing a quick, satisfying challenge with a technical edge.
While bolts and chains provide reliable protection, the trad lead lines demand solid gear placement skills. Loose rock is minimal, but approach trails can be slippery when wet, so watch your footing. Sudden weather shifts are common at altitude—be prepared for wind and rapid cooling.
Approach from the right side of the crag for the easiest access and top-rope options.
Climb early or late in the day to avoid direct sun and improve grip.
Bring a standard rack including cams for 0.3 to 1.5 inch to cover trad placements if leading.
Check weather forecasts as conditions can change quickly in this mountainous region.
Equipped with bolts placed in 2016, Honey Pot is well-suited for sport climbing and top-rope setups. Trad climbers will find solid placements for cams, but should expect a sharp increase in difficulty for gear leads, especially beyond 5.9.
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