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Landscape Architect: A Steep Sport Pitch on Tanner Dome

Westcliffe, Colorado United States
steep face
technical footwork
single pitch
sport route
crux in middle
dry rock
Length: 100 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Landscape Architect
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Landscape Architect delivers a compact, steep pitch on Tanner Dome that challenges climbers with precise footwork and technical face climbing. At 5.9-, this route balances accessibility with a tricky crux, making it a rewarding test for sport climbers seeking controlled movement and steadiness."

Landscape Architect: A Steep Sport Pitch on Tanner Dome

Perched on the rugged face of Tanner Dome within Colorado’s Wet Mountains, Landscape Architect challenges climbers with a sharp, focused burst of vertical terrain that demands precision and poise. This single-pitch sport route stretches about 100 feet, presenting a steady progression of well-defined holds set against a steep, sun-exposed wall. The climb’s character strikes a fine line between approachable and demanding; while rated 5.9-, it carries a subtle edge that tests foot placement and balance more than raw power.

As you step onto the rock, the steady slope pulls you upward through a succession of textured edges and pockets, inviting a rhythm that rewards careful motion and steady breathing. The middle section tightens into a definite crux—steeper and less forgiving—where handholds become sparse and the feet take command. Navigating this stretch asks for silent focus as you shift weight deliberately, coaxing your body upward with measured footwork and subtle shifts in center of gravity. The rock offers enough features to keep you secure, but the margin for error narrows where the face steepens.

The route’s setting on Tanner Dome offers more than just climbing; the surrounding expanse of Oak Creek Canyon unfolds below, framed by the characteristic hues of Colorado’s high country. After the ascent, the clear, dry air invites you to linger, soaking in the wash of sunlight and the faint rustling of mountain winds.

This climb suits those seeking a compact, technical sport challenge with moderate commitment and a rewarding sequencing puzzle. For preparation, bring roughly 10 quickdraws to clip into the well-spaced bolts that secure the line, ending at a two-bolt anchor that’s straightforward to set up or clean. Shoes with a firm edge will enhance foot precision across the varied holds, and a chalk bag comes highly recommended to maintain grip through the more exposed moves.

Approach to Tanner Dome is relatively straightforward but crosses variable terrain, so sturdy shoes and hydration are essential. Because the south-facing wall catches the sun for much of the day, early morning climbs offer cooler and more comfortable conditions, especially in warmer months. Winter and shoulder seasons bring crisp air and quieter approaches, but be prepared for rapidly shifting weather.

With thirteen votes contributing to its 2.5-star average, this route holds appeal as a spirited test that blends physical engagement with thoughtful climbing. It stands apart from neighboring climbs by offering a crux that emphasizes subtlety in motion rather than brute strength—ideal for climbers eager to refine technique on steep, face-oriented terrain.

Climber Safety

Be mindful of the exposed nature of the wall, especially during hotter parts of the day when the rock surface heats up. The bolts are well-placed but maintain focus on trusting your foot placements, particularly in the middle crux section where fewer handholds are available.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length100 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon sun and heated rock.

Bring shoes with stiff edges for precise foot placements.

Chalk up efficiently; the crux demands confident grip.

Hydrate well, as the area is exposed and dry.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9-
Quality
Consensus:While graded 5.9-, Landscape Architect feels more nuanced than some typical climbs at this level, largely due to the sustained steepness and a crux that demands exact footwork without much hand support. Compared to nearby routes like Amp Left and Amp Right, it presents a stiffer challenge that emphasizes balance and precision over pure strength, rewarding climbers who focus on technique.

Gear Requirements

Sport climb equipped with bolts spaced for about 10 quickdraws, finishing at a well-established two-bolt anchor.

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Tags

steep face
technical footwork
single pitch
sport route
crux in middle
dry rock