"How's My Driving is a crisp, technical 5.9 sport climb on Telluride's Main Wall. Featuring clean pockets and a straightforward bolt line, this route offers a focused challenge that’s perfect for climbers tuning their pocket technique or easing into more advanced climbs."
How's My Driving offers a concise yet engaging climb set on the Main Wall of the Falls Walls near Telluride, Colorado. This single-pitch, 100-foot route snakes upward alongside a clean seam, inviting climbers to test their skill on well-defined pockets that steadily guide you toward the anchors. The rock here feels alive under your fingertips — rough enough to secure confident holds but polished smoothly where the pockets carve out natural grips. While the approach traverses dry terrain typical of the region, the climb provides a refreshing challenge with reliable draws to clipped chains, making it a straightforward sport route perfect for those stepping into the 5.9 realm.
Positioned within the sunlit exposure of the Falls Walls, the route catches early morning light and tends to stay dry well into the day, offering a reliable landing spot during shoulder seasons in spring and fall. The surrounding landscape is open and airy, with crisp mountain air swirling faintly as the local breeze dances through the canyon. The steady rhythm of climbing here is almost meditative, a contrast to more strenuous nearby lines, yet it demands attention with its technical pockets that require precise hand placements.
Preparation is key to maximize your experience on How's My Driving. Bringing a standard sport rack with quickdraws suffices, and since the route ends at bolts fixed into solid rock, gear hauling remains light. Approaching the wall is a manageable trek, with well-marked paths that lead hikers through sparse scrubland punctuated by occasional pines. The hike-in rewards you with wide views of Colorado’s rugged skyline, signaling the raw environment where adventure reigns.
For climbers aiming to sharpen their pocket climbing or searching for an approachable 5.9 pitch to warm up or cool down, How's My Driving serves as a sensory embrace of Telluride’s climbing character. The route encourages controlled movements and sharp focus, with the rock’s texture and natural features negotiating the rhythm of each ascent. Whether you’re a local or passing through, this route can be a rewarding addition to your day, blending clear logistical needs with authentic alpine flavor.
While the climbing bolts are solid, remain alert around the approach where loose rocks and uneven footing can pose hazards. The polished pockets require deliberate moves; rushing increases slip risk.
Start early to take advantage of morning sun and avoid afternoon heat.
Approach trail is dry and well marked, wear sturdy shoes for rocky footing.
Bring extra water — the canyon air can dry you out faster than expected.
Clip draws carefully; the pockets require precise hand placement for secure moves.
Standard sport draws suffice here with fixed chains at the anchors, so keep your rack light and your focus sharp.
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