Intensive Care stakes its claim on the sprawling face of Silver Cascade Slab, a broad, sun-washed granite rise in North Cheyenne Canyon, Colorado Springs. This one-pitch route offers an engaging test of slab climbing technique, blending the polished smoothness of the rock with subtle features that dare climbers to trust their feet and balance over brute strength. The climb begins in a shallow corner tucked beneath a long, overhanging roof—a natural gateway into the slab’s complexities. As you push upward from this ramp-like start, a single chopped bolt marks the route’s early challenge, a reminder of the slab's steady wear from repeated ascents.

Protection is a degree of careful management here. The route requires a well-placed #2.5 to #3 Friend to secure the move under the V-shaped break in the roof—a spot where the rock demands controlled precision. Beyond this section, a bolt offers a critical clip and psychological reprieve before the wall steps left, a move that becomes noticeably harder for shorter climbers. Moving onto small, discreet shelves, the climb continues up a cleaner stretch dotted with five additional bolts that lead to the top. These bolts punctuate the slab without overwhelming the natural flow of the ascent.

Once at the cliff’s crest, a robust tree anchor provides a confident belay station, inviting climbers to pause and drink in the views of the rugged foothills and the canyon’s wooded embrace. The descent is straightforward: a walk-off to the left, making retreat simple and safe after the effort above. The approach to Intensive Care takes you through classic North Cheyenne terrain—pine-scented air, scattered granite boulders, and a trail that winds within easy reach of the city while still feeling removed.

Though moderate by rating, the route's character lies in its slab style and mental demands rather than sheer physicality. The polished surfaces speak to years of hands and feet negotiating friction and balance, with occasional pockets of interest that reward careful foot placement and thoughtful gear placement. A 200-foot rope will cover the full length comfortably, and climbers are advised to bring quickdraws alongside their camming devices to keep protection tight and efficient.

Intensive Care's history is a quiet echo of resilience. Established after a formidable throat injury sidelined its first ascensionist in the early ’90s, the route stands as a testament to returning stronger—though it asks for respect rather than recklessness. Even older iron, a single short bolt with a rappel sling dating before the official ascent, hints at prior attempts and the layered stories etched into the slab.

For climbers searching for a short, technical experience with a crisp view and manageable approach, Intensive Care delivers. It’s an ideal outing for those sharpening slab technique or looking to expand their route repertoire in the front range’s limestone shadow, with enough challenge to stay focused and enough accessibility to enjoy early or late season climbs when temperatures hover in the comfortable range. Prepare for sun exposure on the slab and variable friction underfoot. Trust your gear placements, steady your breath, and move confidently—the climb rewards patience with clean, quiet success.