Labby, tucked within the rugged contours of Clear Creek Canyon near Golden, Colorado, offers a compact but engaging sport climb that challenges your technique without demanding overwhelming endurance. This single-pitch route stretches 80 feet up a steep bulge before easing into thinner, lower-angle terrain that requires precise footwork and steady composure. From the base, you’ll notice the initial overhanging section demanding a pull and balance that teases your strength and positioning. Above, the bolts guide you to a prominent hump—a hold that feels alive under your fingertips as the rock seems to test your resolve. The final 25 feet reward you with a sustained, slightly less steep climb, welcoming you toward the double chain anchor where you’ll lower off.

Clear Creek Canyon’s rocky walls stand exposed to the sun for much of the day, so timing your ascent for early morning or late afternoon can provide comfortable shade and help keep the rock from overheating. The climb’s moderate rating of 5.9- suggests a route that is approachable for those building confidence at that level, but don’t mistake the grade for easy—there’s a subtle crux where balance and finesse trump brute force.

The protection setup consists of eight well-placed bolts with a secure anchor featuring Mussy hooks, giving a reliable safety net but also calling for clean clipping and route-reading skills. Climbers should be prepared for moderately spaced bolts that demand awareness and purposeful movement. The rock itself is solid, but like much of Clear Creek Canyon, some texture can test your grip in drier conditions.

Beyond the climb, the canyon’s environment pulses with the sounds of wind through pines and the occasional rush of Clear Creek’s waters below, creating an intimate setting that feels both wild and accessible. The approach is short and straightforward, allowing even day visitors to squeeze in a quality session without a long trek.

Whether you’re sharpening your sport climbing skills or looking to add a reliable 5.9 climb to your logbook, Labby delivers a compact, focused challenge that combines the thrill of steep climbing with a manageable risk profile. Bring steady feet, a calm mind, and a full rack of quickdraws. Hydration is key as the sun can intensify quickly on the exposed wall, and an early start helps you avoid the heat that amplifies each move’s demand. Plan your descent carefully by lowering off from the anchor—downclimbing is discouraged due to the route’s angle and exposure.

Labby stands as a compelling test piece for Clear Creek’s sport enthusiasts, a climb that favors precision and poise amidst a naturally dynamic setting with just enough intensity to keep your senses alert and your muscles engaged.