Just Another 5.9 provides a straightforward yet engaging crack climb that sits just to the left of the more frequented Crescent Loon on Ophir Wall. This single-pitch trad route covers 90 feet of varied crack climbing woven through a gully framed by weathered Colorado sandstone. After a spring storm left much of the crag slick and damp, this route stood out as the only reliably dry option, offering a welcome challenge for climbers seeking to test finger jams and gear placements without an intimidating crux. The initial moves can be approached two ways: start on the right with classic traditional gear placements for a gentler introduction, or step left to clip two bolts at the start for a more strenuous opening sequence. Both offer a rewarding experience, with the harder start demanding confidence in technique and the easier start asking for careful gear management amid the crack system.

The route unfolds along a crack that invites careful consideration for protection. Doubles to 0.75 cam sizes serve well here, and although singles in the #1, #2, and #3 sizes are possible, doubling up on those pieces would provide better security against the occasional runout sections. Vegetation and loose stone require a bit of 'gardening' along some placements, encouraging climbers to engage actively with the rock rather than expecting perfect pro opportunities. A double-length sling anchored around a horn picked up near the crux above helps protect more exposed moves.

The climb's setting within the Ophir Wall offers not just solid rock but a glance at the broader Telluride/Norwood area’s rugged landscape. The gully gently channels wind and light, creating a microenvironment where dry conditions often linger longer than elsewhere on the wall. Though steeper and more strenuous moderate climbs exist nearby, Just Another 5.9 has earned its spot as a reliable, approachable line for those honing trad crack skills or scouting moderate trad options in the region.

Preparation-wise, shoes with sticky rubber and good smear ability will aid secure footwork on the sandstone’s variable edges and face holds. Given the route’s potential to hold water after a storm, timing your climb for the drier parts of the day or late spring to summer ensures the best friction and comfort. Hydration remains vital; the trail access skirts open forest, where sparse shade demands a refill before the climb. Finally, a calm, attentive approach makes all the difference on a route where gear placements are creative and a well-planned rack will boost confidence.

In essence, Just Another 5.9 invites climbers to engage precisely with the rock and its protection challenges while offering a taste of the Ophir Wall’s character. It’s a route that may not dazzle with flashy moves but rewards focused effort, making it a worthwhile addition to your Colorado trad portfolio.