"Venture up the rugged north faces of Witches' Tower and Sherwood Forest on this three-pitch trad climb. It’s My Swamp blends accessible moderate moves with unsettled terrain, offering a gritty, authentic Boulder adventure underpinned by route-finding challenges and raw rock."
It's My Swamp challenges climbers with an authentic slice of Colorado's wild granite, ascending the gritty north faces of Witches' Tower and the adjacent Sherwood Forest. This three-pitch trad route offers a raw experience where loose blocks and scruffy rock demand focused footwork and steady nerves, rewarding those ready for low-moderate difficulty with a sense of adventure and pure route-finding. Approach the climb by crossing the creek—either by a Tyrolean traverse or wading through cool waters that dare you to test your balance. The trek follows a largely clear path alongside the creek before veering left to the base of the lower buttress. From here, the climb begins at the left edge of Witches' Tower’s north face, where a flexing flake resembling a probing nose adds character to the opening moves. Protection placements favor smaller cams, wires, and Aliens, particularly around the crux section, where a secure black Alien placement offers a rare solid hold. Pitch one ascends through mostly moderate cracks and ledges, blending technical climbing with moments to catch your breath on wider holds. Pitch two introduces more complexity: a choice to skirt loose gendarmes or test route-finding skills by hopping across tricky blocks that sway with every move. Belaying at a tree in a notch offers a chance to pause and assess conditions before heading to the final pitch. The third pitch leads up Sherwood Forest’s north face, where cracks and blocks demand careful navigation as you trend right toward the summit. Loose rock here remains a concern, highlighting the need for caution and slow, deliberate movement. The descent sweeps around the west side on loose scree, reconnecting with established trails. Despite its raw character and modest star rating, It’s My Swamp offers an unpolished yet memorable climb for those eager to explore new lines amid Boulder’s granite. Wear sturdy boots for the approach, bring a full micro-cam and wire rack up to #3 Camalot, and prepare for a route that blends adventure with classic Colorado stone. This is a route for climbers seeking straightforward moderate climbing with an edge, and the freedom to carve their own path in a developing trad area.
Loose rock is a consistent hazard throughout the route—approach all holds and blocks with caution. The creek crossing can be slippery and cold; use proper footwear. The descent down loose scree requires careful footing—avoid it when wet to prevent slips and falls.
Cross the creek carefully: a Tyrolean traverse is safest, but wading is possible in low water.
Approach path is defined but can become slippery after rain—wear grippy shoes.
Watch for loose blocks especially on pitch two; test every hold before trusting it.
Descent follows loose scree on the west side—take poles for stability if needed.
A solid rack of wires, Aliens, and cams up to #3 Camalot is essential. Expect to place gear in varied crack sizes, with some placements requiring deliberate searching due to looseness. Maintain focus around the crux and traverse sections where protection is sparse but reliable.
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