"Large Crack at Rebel Wall provides a welcoming trad climb with solid protection and straightforward movement along a striking crack feature. Ideal for those easing into Clear Creek Canyon’s trad terrain, this 120-foot line balances simplicity with enough challenge to leave you eager for more."
Rising from the rugged terrain of Clear Creek Canyon near Golden, Colorado, Large Crack stands as a welcoming gateway to the Rebel Wall's impressive lineup. This single-pitch trad route stretches about 120 feet, tracing a clear, left-leaning fissure that snakes through a solid rock face just left of the canyon’s iconic big tree. Unlike more intimidating climbs in the area, Large Crack offers a straightforward but engaging path that encourages exploration without overwhelming climbers new to the vertical world. The initial roof section, with its right-facing dihedral, acts almost like a natural marker, guiding climbers into the heart of the route. Here, the rock presents a confident challenge—mostly solid yet occasionally shedding small loose bits, a reminder to stay mindful with every hold.
The charm of Large Crack lies in its accessibility paired with practical gear options. The crack itself invites protective gear placements almost wherever you look, offering climbers ample opportunity to set up a secure line with a full rack of Friends complemented by wired stoppers. Pushing around the roof’s corner evokes a feeling akin to the classic Tagger climb, but with even more generous placements for protection. This not only builds trust in the rock but also lets climbers focus on movement and flow rather than safety concerns.
Approaching Rebel Wall is straightforward. You’ll find yourself stepping off the main trail into a mix of scrub and rocky outcrops before arriving at the base, where the massive tree stands as a clear beacon. With a 50-meter rope recommended for the full pitch, climbers can circle the crack from start to finish without interruption. After topping out, descending is a manageable walk-off to the left, a rare convenience in the canyon that lets you quickly reset for additional climbs or soak in the surrounding forested ridges.
Clear Creek Canyon itself provides a vibrant backdrop, with its pine-lit slopes and the occasional flutter of wind through the branches creating a dynamic atmosphere. Early morning sun warms the wall’s western face, making spring and fall ideal seasons to climb Large Crack before summer heat fully settles in. Hydration is key here, as shade is limited and the climb demands steady effort—lightweight footwear with solid edging and plenty of cams in the smaller to medium range will prepare you well for the subtle variations in crack width.
Even with its gentle reputation, Large Crack isn’t just a warm-up. It’s a test of route-finding within a more complex setting, pushing you to read natural breaks and manage protection effectively. For anyone stepping into traditional climbing or seeking a refreshing, accessible route in one of Colorado’s storied canyons, this climb offers a perfect introduction, inviting return visits to tackle the bolder lines looming above.
Watch for surface debris on the rock, especially near the roof section where loose flakes may dislodge. Ensure all gear placements are checked twice, as the natural rustling of the canyon can mask subtle gear shifts. The descent walk-off is easy but remains rocky and uneven—proceed with care, especially when tired.
Start just left of the large tree at the base of Rebel Wall for the best line into Large Crack.
Early spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and optimal sun exposure on the western-facing wall.
Wear shoes with good edging as some moves require precise foot placements along the crack edges.
Plan hydration carefully—there’s little shade along the approach or climb itself during midday.
A 50m rope is essential to cover the entire length in one go. Bring a rack loaded with wired stoppers and a full set of Friends, including supplemental #2 and #3 Camalots for wider sections. Extra slings will help with anchor building and managing rope drag around the roof corner.
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