HomeClimbingI Did It My Way

I Did It My Way: A Thoughtful Challenge on Wind Tower's Southwest Face

Boulder, Colorado United States
small gear
delicate moves
short pitch
mental challenge
top rope anchor
Length: ft
Type: Trad, TR
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
I Did It My Way
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"A brief yet demanding trad climb on Wind Tower’s Southwest Face, 'I Did It My Way' challenges climbers with delicate gear placements and subtle moves. Perfect for those who appreciate mental focus paired with technical skill in the heart of Eldorado Canyon."

I Did It My Way: A Thoughtful Challenge on Wind Tower's Southwest Face

On the rugged Southwest Face of Wind Tower, 'I Did It My Way' offers a brief yet intense climbing experience that tests both technique and mental grit. Situated in Eldorado Canyon State Park near Boulder, Colorado, this single-pitch trad route carves a direct line through a subtle seam and right-facing flake that beckons climbers who appreciate commitment on delicate, small holds and gear placements. From the base, the rock feels alive—granite edges negotiating sunlight and shadow, the texture rough beneath calloused fingertips. The climb ascends diagonally right, converging just below the distinctive Tagger roof, merging with cracks that demand precise footwork and confident gear placement.

Though short, the route demands respect. The protection consists mostly of small placements complemented by a standard rack, emphasizing the importance of trust in your nuts and cams where the protection is less generous. With a 5.9 R rating, this climb introduces a psychological element uncommon in many Boulder area routes; the 'R' warns of limited protection, turning every move into a considered decision. The trade-off is a chance to refine body tension and balance on less obvious holds, which keeps the experience grounded in the practical while feeding a subtle adrenaline rush.

Access is straightforward, with a well-trodden approach through Eldorado Canyon SP that takes about 15 minutes from the parking area. The trail meanders through open pine and scrub oak, the scent of dry dirt and resin hanging in the air as daylight filters through the canopy. Climbers will appreciate arriving early to beat the afternoon sun, as the wall shifts into shade by midday, providing cool, grippy rock underfoot.

The descent is uncomplicated—top-rope anchors above Tagger's first pitch make rappelling safe and efficient. However, the mental challenge remains after the climb: reflecting on how subtle the line is, and how the climb is more about personal resolve than showy moves or high mileage. For those seeking a climb that feels quietly demanding with a rewarding payoff in self-confidence and technique, 'I Did It My Way' offers a solid introduction to Eldorado's more cerebral side.

Practical advice for those attempting this route: bring a rack with a good selection of small cams and nuts, prepare for minimal rest spots on the rock face, and use shoes with sensitive edging to tackle the seam’s delicate holds. Hydrate well and time your approach to avoid midday heat on the canyon trail. Finally, approach the climb with deliberate calm—the route rewards steady focus more than bold bursts.

'I Did It My Way' stands as a nod to climbers who find satisfaction in mastering subtle lines on classic granite, offering a compact adventure that emphasizes mental sharpness alongside physical skill in one of Colorado’s iconic climbing landscapes.

Climber Safety

The 'R' rating highlights sparse protection, so climbers should be prepared for potential runouts and accept that falls could be long. The rock offers solid holds, but the mental demands on gear commitment require clear-headed climbing. Avoid attempting in wet conditions as the granite texture can become slippery.

Route Details

TypeTrad, TR
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Arrive early to climb in the cooler morning shade

Bring a diverse range of small cams and nuts

Double-check anchor rigging above Tagger before lowering

Stay mentally focused on gear placements; the runout demands calm

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9 R
Quality
Consensus:'I Did It My Way' carries a 5.9 R rating that doesn’t exaggerate its difficulty but introduces a notable mental edge. The direct line requires precise placement on smaller pro, so while the moves sit comfortably within the 5.9 difficulty range, the runout factor amplifies the seriousness. Compared to other Boulder trad routes of similar grade, this climb leans towards the cautious side—making it an excellent test for climbers wanting to push confidence more than pure physical intensity.

Gear Requirements

Small pieces essential along with a standard rack; the route can be top-roped easily from the anchors above Tagger’s first pitch.

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Tags

small gear
delicate moves
short pitch
mental challenge
top rope anchor