"I Am Not Zeus offers a two-pitch trad climb on the Greek Towers near Devil’s Head, blending technical slab with engaging ridge moves. Its mix of runout slab and easier summit ridge invites climbers ready for a precise, thoughtful ascent surrounded by rugged mountain views."
I Am Not Zeus presents a rugged, thought-provoking challenge on the Greek Towers, just off Devil's Head near South Platte, Colorado. This two-pitch trad route starts on the northeast flank of Sisyphus Tower, tracing its northwest arete with deliberate movements over a slab that will test your confidence and footwork. The route’s uneven 5.8 section demands steady focus as you navigate towards a distinctive bouldery ledge that sits boldly between Sisyphus and Salmoneus Towers — a natural resting point with commanding views of the surrounding granite spires and the pine-streaked hills below.
From this ledge, the second pitch takes a step across a large, solid block and ascends along Salmoneus Tower’s southern ridge. The climbing eases considerably here, rated at 5.0, allowing for a mindful, unhurried push to the summit. The ridge’s exposed edges offer a gentle breeze that carries the scent of dry earth and pine needles — a refreshing contrast to the initial slab’s intensity.
Though not the original line planned—intended to climb Sisyphus Tower’s face directly—the route shifts to a safer yet still engaging corridor, trading a runout for more secure rock and rewarding the effort with a satisfying summit experience on Salmoneus. The descent calls for a careful downclimb back to the bouldery ledge, followed by a simul-rappel off a large boulder into a cave tucked beneath Sisyphus’s northeast side, providing a sheltered and memorable end to the climb.
Gear-wise, a select collection of cams and nuts is essential. The placements lean towards smaller sizes, demanding thoughtful placement and attention to detail. This route is ideal for climbers comfortable with moderate slab and willing to manage runouts with calm precision. Approaching I Am Not Zeus offers a short but rugged hike from the trailhead, with terrain that prepares you physically and mentally for the climb’s demands.
Adventurers should come equipped with solid climbing shoes that handle slab friction well, a helmet to guard against loose flakes on the approach and descent, and a set of nuts paired with several small to medium cams. Timing your climb in late spring to early fall will maximize dry rock conditions, and mid-morning ascents catch the wall in partial sun, balancing warmth with shade.
The Greek Towers stand as a lesser-explored segment of the Devil’s Head massif, rewarding those who seek routes beyond the busiest lines. Here, the character of the rock—its angles, ledges, and the space between—feels alive, interacting with your movements and decisions. I Am Not Zeus isn’t just about summiting; it’s about engaging with a route where every step must be measured and every hold respected. It holds particular appeal for climbers who appreciate a route that blends technical slab with accessible exposure. This is a climb with an edge of quiet intensity and a pace that invites you to tune into the elements around you.
Approaching and descending this route involves navigating loose rock and a small cave entry during rappel. Take care with your footing on the slab pitch where protection is sparse and focus is critical. Avoid climbing after rain as the slab becomes dangerously slick, and always double-check all gear placements to reduce risk.
Wear climbing shoes with excellent slab friction to maintain secure footing.
Start the ascent mid-morning for balanced sun exposure and fewer risks from slick rock.
Bring a helmet to protect from occasional loose flakes during approach and descent.
Plan for a simul-rappel descent and familiarize yourself with the rappel anchors before climbing.
Climbers should pack a selective rack of cams and nuts, favoring smaller to medium-sized pieces to tackle the slab’s subtle protection options. No fixed gear; all placements require careful evaluation.
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