HomeClimbingLaurel & Hardy Meet Abbott & Costello

Laurel & Hardy Meet Abbott & Costello

Boulder, Colorado United States
sport climb
granite
single pitch
5.9
boulder canyon
well bolted
classic crux
reliable friction
Length: 50 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Laurel & Hardy Meet Abbott & Costello
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"A concise 50-foot sport climb in Boulder Canyon, featuring reliable bolts and a crux at the fifth bolt. This route rewards steady footwork and precise moves on textured granite, perfect for a focused afternoon ascent."

Laurel & Hardy Meet Abbott & Costello

Laurel & Hardy Meet Abbott & Costello offers a straightforward yet engaging sport climb in Boulder Canyon's Lower Animal World area, an accessible gem for climbers seeking a concise, well-bolted challenge. This single pitch route winds through solid Colorado granite, spanning 50 feet of sustained moves that reward attention to subtle edge holds and precise footwork. The approach frames the climb within a quiet pocket of nature where the crisp mountain air mingles with the faint rustle of nearby pines, setting a focused atmosphere even for those new to the area.

From the ground, the bolts guide you steadily upward, with the crux materializing around the fifth bolt where the route demands a deft balance of body tension and confident reach on well-defined edges. Beyond this key sequence, smooth holds allow for easier movement, leading you cleanly to the shared anchors originally paired with the now-removed Geritol Generation route. The rock’s textured surface offers reliable friction, encouraging controlled, deliberate moves.

This route’s modest length is ideal for a quick afternoon ascent, whether you're staying in Boulder or just passing through. Climbers report a moderate star rating—averaging around 1.6—owing less to difficulty and more to the climb's simplicity and straightforward nature compared to more adventurous options nearby. Still, its solid protection with seven bolts spaced to provide good security invites climbers who favor sport routes that balance safety with subtle technical demands.

Lower Animal World, the broader area housing this climb, offers a mix of solitude and access—a refreshing contrast to Boulder’s busier crags. The granite here holds up well to weather and use, making for dependable conditions through the spring and fall seasons. Morning to midday sunlight strikes the wall, so scheduling your climb during these hours helps minimize chill while avoiding afternoon heat.

Before heading out, give careful thought to your gear: standard sport climbing racks suffice, but the precise bolt placements prompt clean clipping and smooth rope management to maintain flow. The descent is straightforward with a two-bolt anchor rappel or an easy walk-off, keeping the experience neat from start to finish.

For anyone seeking a no-frills, enjoyable climb that combines the reliability of a sport route with the subtle pleasures of Boulder Canyon’s familiar granite texture, Laurel & Hardy Meet Abbott & Costello fits the bill with efficiency and character. It’s an appealing choice for both newcomers sharpening their trad-free tactics and seasoned climbers appreciating a solid warm-up or cool-down pitch.

Climber Safety

Though well protected with bolts, climbers should clip carefully to avoid rope drag near the crux. The granite is solid but can become slick if wet, so avoid climbing after rain. The descent requires a rappel or cautious walk-off; always double-check anchors before lowering.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length50 feet

Local Tips

Aim to climb between mid-morning and early afternoon for the best sunlight and warmth on the wall.

Wear sticky shoes with good edge precision to navigate the subtle crux at the fifth bolt.

Rappel is straightforward from the two-bolt anchor; bring an 8.5 mm or thicker rope for safety.

Stay hydrated—while the approach is short, the sun can be strong in summer, and water sources are limited nearby.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:At 5.9, the grade feels balanced for intermediate climbers, with a cleanly defined crux around the fifth bolt that tests technique rather than raw power. The route avoids any unexpected strain, making it an approachable introduction to sustained sport climbing in the area. Compared with other Boulder Canyon routes, this climb fits well as a precise, focused challenge without overly committing sequences.

Gear Requirements

Seven bolts protect the climb to a secure two-bolt anchor, allowing clean quickdraw placements with no gear necessary beyond standard sport rack.

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Tags

sport climb
granite
single pitch
5.9
boulder canyon
well bolted
classic crux
reliable friction