Adventure Collective

Kicker: A Compact Sport Climb in The Bank at Shelf Road

Canon City, Colorado United States
right-facing corner
layback crack
bolted anchor
sun-exposed
Shelf Road
moderate
single pitch
sport climb
Length: 40 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Kicker
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Kicker stands out as a sunlit, moderate sport climb at Shelf Road’s The Bank sector. Offering a 40-foot pitch of sustained movement, it blends large holds and a technical layback crack for an accessible yet engaging experience."

Kicker: A Compact Sport Climb in The Bank at Shelf Road

Kicker offers a focused, sun-drenched introduction to the sport routes that make The Bank sector at Shelf Road a favored destination for climbers heading to Canon City, Colorado. This 40-foot climb delivers a single pitch of engaging movement, perfect for climbers looking to warm up or sharpen their technique on moderate terrain. From the moment you step onto the wall, you’ll notice how the early sunlight animates the shallow right-facing corner—highlighting generous holds both within the corner and along the adjacent pillar.

The ascent begins with a confident grip on the corner’s large edges, compelling you to engage your footwork precisely as you navigate upwards. After negotiating the pillar, the climb shifts onto the face above, which demands steady balance and body awareness. The final stretch introduces a layback crack that invites a controlled, technical finish to the anchors. This sequence challenges you with a blend of pulling power and finesse, ensuring the climb remains dynamic without being overly strenuous.

Protection on Kicker is straightforward, with five fixed bolts providing solid security along the length of the route. The anchors consist of a two-bolt, half-inch welded cold shuts setup, constructed for reliable top-rope or lead lowering. Given the solid bolting and absence of gear placements required, Kicker is approachable for climbers newer to sport climbs while still providing enough features to engage more experienced hands.

Reaching The Bank involves a moderate approach through the well-used paths of Shelf Road, with an elevation that’s manageable and terrain that’s generally stable. Shelf Road’s arid surroundings and rocky landscape absorb the sun well, making morning efforts particularly pleasant before the heat settles in. Weather conditions here are typically dry, but a quick check before visiting ensures the best possible climbing experience.

Kicker’s approachable grade of 5.9 strikes a middle ground—offering enough challenge to hone technique without feeling intimidating. It fits well into a climbing day spent exploring Shelf Road’s varied offerings, positioning itself as a dependable route for groups and solo climbers alike. The climb’s location near Canon City adds the bonus of nearby amenities and access to the rich climbing culture of Colorado’s front range, blending adventure with convenience.

For those planning to climb Kicker, a solid pair of climbing shoes with good edging capability will help you navigate the pillar and the face above. Hydration is essential, as Shelf Road’s exposure can elevate temperatures quickly. Early season or cooler hours of the day are ideal conditions to maximize comfort and performance on this sun-catching wall. Whether you’re ticking off routes or seeking a focused, well-protected 5.9, Kicker wraps its modest length with an engaging rhythm and straightforward beta that make it a must-try on this classic climbing corridor.

Climber Safety

While bolting is secure, the route’s shallow corner and pillar section require attentive foot placements. Slippery rock from lingering dust or loose debris could increase slipping risk, so climbers should clean footholds before starting. Be aware of the warm, sun-exposed face that can lead to overheating on hot days.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length40 feet

Local Tips

Arrive early to enjoy the route in morning sun before the heat builds.

Wear climbing shoes with precise edging to handle the pillar and face transitions.

Bring plenty of water; Shelf Road’s exposure can cause rapid dehydration.

Check weather forecasts—south-facing walls warm quickly, especially in summer.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.9, Kicker presents a balanced challenge with a crux that feels true to its grade. The move through the layback crack offers a brief increase in effort but maintains a consistent difficulty overall. It’s somewhat on the approachable side for this rating compared to more sustained 5.9 climbs in the region, making it ideal for climbers upgrading from easier grades.

Gear Requirements

Kicker is equipped with five bolts spaced to provide secure protection, ending at a reliable two-bolt, half-inch welded cold shuts anchor. No additional gear is required, making it a straightforward sport route.

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Tags

right-facing corner
layback crack
bolted anchor
sun-exposed
Shelf Road
moderate
single pitch
sport climb