"Lay It Back offers a clear, approachable trad climb in Dry Creek Crag’s Right Side near Montrose, Colorado. This 40-foot, 5.8 single pitch invites climbers to refine their layback technique with big cam placements and a steady rhythm."
Lay It Back is a straightforward yet engaging trad route perched on the Right Side of Dry Creek Crag near Montrose, Colorado. This single-pitch, 40-foot climb offers an opportunity to embrace classic layback technique without the pressure of complicated sequences. From the moment you step onto the broad hog corner, the rock greets you with a reassuring texture and ample footholds that invite a steady upward rhythm. The climb encourages a patient dance between hand jams and foot placements, testing your balance and body positioning as you ascend. The environment around the crag itself feels quiet and focused; towering pines buffer the cool Colorado air, while occasional breezes ripple through the branches, almost nudging you to keep moving forward.
Despite its accessibility, Lay It Back demands respect for rack preparation. The route favors larger cams, ranging from #2 through #6 in Black Diamond sizes, creating a solid line of protection if you place them efficiently. While toproping is possible thanks to a 2-bolt anchor equipped with chains and rings, true value comes from leading this climb and honing your trad skills. The rock quality holds up well, but climbers should prepare for maintaining good friction on sometimes uneven edges.
Getting to Dry Creek Crag is a breeze for anyone familiar with Montrose — it lies a short drive outside town, surrounded by the expansive high desert landscape typical of western Colorado. The solid approach trail is lined with sagebrush and intermittent groves that offer shade patches, making early mornings or late afternoons the ideal window to avoid the midday sun beating down on southeast-facing walls. Lay It Back’s crisp 5.8 rating feels fair but approachable; it challenges your technique and gear management, especially on layback moves that become more engaging the higher you climb.
In terms of safety, the big cams are essential—not just recommended—because protection opportunities narrow quickly if you push past the initial corner feature. The established anchor’s bolts are reliable, but rappel descent should be approached carefully, as loose rock occasionally finds its way onto the ring platform. Bringing a helmet is essential here.
Ultimately, Lay It Back offers climbers a balanced introduction to trad climbing with a practical focus on gear placement, movement, and route reading. If you crave a single-pitch that builds confidence on natural features and familiarizes you with laybacking without the stress of a complicated approach or runout, this route is a smart pick. Whether you're topping out on lead or enjoying the security of a toprope, the climb delivers a quiet day of focused movement framed by the vast, open skies of Colorado’s western expanse.
Focus on placing large cams securely in the widened corner crack to prevent extended falls. Loose rock near the anchor demands a helmet, and care is necessary on the descent to avoid knocking debris onto climbers below.
Bring a helmet to protect against occasional loose rock near the anchor.
Start early or late to avoid the afternoon sun on this southeast-facing wall.
Pack a rack focused on larger cams; smaller gear is less useful here.
Take care while rappelling; check fixed gear and avoid dislodging debris.
Prepare big cams in sizes #2 through #6 (Black Diamond recommended). The line demands solid placements in the large corner crack section. A 2-bolt anchor with chains and rings supports safe toprope setups.
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