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I'd Give My Left Nut

Idaho Springs, Colorado United States
trad crack
alpine exposure
micronut placement
single pitch
Colorado climbing
Length: 115 ft
Type: Trad, Alpine
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
I'd Give My Left Nut
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Steep alpine granite tests your gear placements and composure on 'I'd Give My Left Nut,' a focused 115-foot trad route on Mt. Evans. Precision and preparation pay off on this single-pitch climb where a key micronut placement protects the crucial crux."

I'd Give My Left Nut

Rising sharply from the rugged contours of The Alpine Lite Cliffs, the route 'I'd Give My Left Nut' offers climbers a pure, focused experience high on Mt. Evans' alpine rock. This single-pitch climb, stretching 115 feet, invites you into a hands-on dance with the dihedral feature that defines its character. The crack system pulls you upward with a steady promise of holds, yet demands precision and attention, especially near the crux. Here, the rock demands respect—while handholds to the right tempt the eye, they lack the reliable security for gear placements that this route requires. Instead, your confidence must grow deeper on the left side, where a textbook micronut placement anchors the crux, offering that crucial lifeline. The protection is straightforward but not to be underestimated—standard wires or brass offset nuts fit naturally into the crack, rewarding those who prepare with a rack tuned to these elements.

The route gives off a deliberate alpine vibe, where every move counts and loose blocks have been suspended from the history by a careful clearing process. The rock greets you with the honesty of well-weathered granite, confident but demanding. The ledge partway invites a moment to pause and recalibrate your senses amid the high-country expanse, where thin air and sharpened focus combine.

Approaching the climb, you'll find yourself in a landscape where the silence hums with anticipation, and the alpine environment is raw and elemental. Winds tease the exposed ridges, and the cool, dry air sharpens your grip and attention. The route’s placement on the mountain offers generous views, the horizon etched sharply against the sky. Here, preparation is key: double up your standard protection to meet the crux demands, and ensure your belayer is alert and ready.

Though rated at 5.9, this route feels like a serious test of smart gear management and steady hands. It is a clear choice for those who favor the honesty of trad climbing paired with alpine exposure. The small community of climbers who frequent this line appreciate its straightforward nature married to a careful challenge. Whether you’re tuning your mental game or adding a solid alpine climb to your repertoire, 'I'd Give My Left Nut' stands out as a memorable pitch on Mt. Evans, Colorado.

Climber Safety

Watch for loose or unsettled blocks near the approach and ensure all gear placements at the crux are thoroughly tested before committing; weather can change quickly in alpine environments, so stay alert to shifting conditions.

Route Details

TypeTrad, Alpine
Pitches1
Length115 feet

Local Tips

Double up your pro near the crux for extra safety.

Stay focused on the left crack for solid gear placements.

Notify your belayer before tackling the crux section.

Approach early in the day to avoid warmer afternoon sun on exposed slabs.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:Though rated a 5.9, this climb’s difficulty hinges on protecting the crux zone where smaller gear must be placed with precision. The grade feels solid for an alpine pitch, requiring steady hands and good judgement rather than pure athleticism. Compared to similar local climbs in the Mt. Evans area, it sits at a moderate level but leans on gear skills more than finger strength.

Gear Requirements

A standard trad rack with an emphasis on wires and brass offset nuts is essential. Double up your protection near the crux for added security. Micronut placements are particularly reliable at the key moves.

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Tags

trad crack
alpine exposure
micronut placement
single pitch
Colorado climbing