Forging an ascent on 'It's Not You, It's Me' means embracing the raw charm of Clear Creek Canyon's Mission Wall, where rugged terrain beckons both mind and muscle. Start your adventure just 80 feet right of the iconic tyrolean, navigating an initial 25-foot scramble up solid 4th Class rock to reach a grassy ledge that offers a moment to steady your breath and gear. The first pitch challenges you with a 25-foot left-facing corner that requires balance and precision before veering right at the top. From here, grassy ledges invite you upward toward a short corner and another secure belay spot rated at 5.5, offering a brief reset amidst the climb’s measured flow.

Pitch two ups the ante with a sizeable right-facing corner cradling generous holds, inviting confident moves while demanding controlled power. Nearing the top, an angle-right traverse along a crack leads to a short left-facing corner crowned by a roof. The final moves around the roof feature exposed, engaging climbing that rewards each committed step with an elevated perspective before settling at a slung pillar belay. This pitch also carries a 5.5 rating but adds an adventurous flair through its complex line.

The final pitch begins with a traverse right from the pillar, reaching a steep crack that holds the route’s crux. Pulling through the bulge takes focused effort and well-placed protection, demanding precision and composure as you push through to the top of the wall. The move rates a solid 5.8, representing the climb’s technical highlight. From here, the descent offers an easy walk-off to the climber’s left, allowing for a smooth return after the exertion.

This route’s character sits in its approachable mix of technical climbing and thoughtful resting spots. The Mission Wall reveals its personality through grassy ledges that soften transitions and corners that invite exploration. Protection needs are practical but not overly demanding—bring a standard trad rack including a #4 cam and be sure to wear helmets; loose rock can appear unexpectedly. With an overall length of about 200 feet spread over three pitches, this climb makes an efficient outing for a half-day adventure, combining enough challenge for intermediate adventurers with clear, manageable routefinding. Weather can sway conditions quickly, so checking forecasts and timing your climb for morning or early afternoon is advised to avoid afternoon warmth and potential rockfall.

Clear Creek Canyon itself is a broad expanse where the canyon walls rise sharply from a lively creek fed by mountain runoff. Nature here is tactile, from the textured granite to the whisper of the breeze threading through pines nearby. This place confronts you with the raw edge of Colorado’s climbing offerings, demanding focus yet rewarding with views that stretch across Golden’s foothills and beyond.

For those gearing up to tackle 'It's Not You, It's Me,' preparation is key: a solid foothold in crack climbing technique will pay dividends, and pacing yourself on exposed sections keeps momentum steady. Expect a blend of fun, technical sequences interspersed with pockets of calm—a climb that feels honest and grounded. Whether you're pacing your first multi-pitch or adding to your local tick list, this route delivers a clear dose of adventure wrapped in pragmatic climb design.