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Lazy Crack at Scorpio Dome: A Classic Colorado Trad Climb

Denver, Colorado USA
trad crack
single pitch
granite slab
moderate grade
Colorado Front Range
solid protection
Length: 165 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Lazy Crack
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Lazy Crack offers an approachable yet engaging trad climb on Scorpio Dome's granite faces. With a range of crack sizes and secure protection, it’s an ideal route for climbers seeking solid technique development in a scenic Front Range setting."

Lazy Crack at Scorpio Dome: A Classic Colorado Trad Climb

Lazy Crack at Scorpio Dome offers climbers an accessible slice of Colorado trad climbing with a straightforward but rewarding line. The route traces a clean, inviting crack that starts on a slab and leads into a wide left-hand crack, guiding your hands and feet with confident grips and jams. Though the rock carries a bit of dirt in sections, the climb maintains a crisp texture that keeps your fingers engaged and your mental focus sharp. Scorpio Dome itself rises above Rampart Range Road, framing the climb with rugged granite faces and an open sky that hints at the vast wilderness beyond. The crack invites climbers to test basic crack techniques, whether it’s finger jamming at the base or thicker hand jams higher up, making it an excellent climb for anyone looking to sharpen trad skills or enjoy a less demanding outing.

The single pitch of 165 feet presents a satisfying stretch of vertical motion, balancing utility and enjoyment without overwhelming complexity. Protection is straightforward: a standard rack up to 4 inches is sufficient, but bringing additional #2 and #3 Camalots will ensure solid coverage for the wider mid-section. Fixed anchors are absent here, so belaying happens from the Scorpio Crack ledge, requiring sound anchor building knowledge.

Approaching Lazy Crack is a smooth affair. The trail ascends gently from Rampart Range Road, winding through open pine stands and granite outcrops that echo with the rustle of wind and occasional calls of local wildlife. Expect about 20 minutes to reach the base, which sits at just over 39 degrees north latitude and -104.97 west longitude. The south-facing wall catches ample sun, making this a welcoming choice for cooler mornings or shoulder seasons when the rock temperature and grip feel just right.

For climbers visiting the Rampart Range, Lazy Crack offers a practical introduction to Scorpio Dome’s granite quality and the area’s quieter vibe compared to busier parks nearby. The route's moderate 5.8 rating is approachable yet satisfying, a soft challenge especially for those stepping into traditional climbing or looking to round out their collection of classic Colorado cracks.

Plan your time here for early starts before the afternoon sun heats the rock fully, and pack extra water to stay hydrated on the exposed approach. Sturdy footwear with good grip will steady you on the slab approach and scramble to the base. While the rock is solid, be mindful of some loose flakes on the ascent and always test your placements carefully. Weather can shift quickly in the Ramparts, so check forecasts and avoid wet or icy conditions to keep the rock safe and climbable.

Ultimately, Lazy Crack’s blend of straightforward movement, solid protection options, and approachable length make it a dependable pick for a laid-back day in the Colorado outdoors. It’s perfect if you want a taste of trad climbing that tests technique without demanding exhaustive endurance, all while soaking in the calming presence of the Front Range wilderness.

Climber Safety

No fixed anchors means climbers must be adept at building secure belays from natural gear. Loose flakes in some sections require careful testing before weighting. Avoid climbing if the rock is wet or after heavy rain to reduce slipping risk.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length165 feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid the afternoon sun warming the granite too much.

Bring extra water for the exposed approach through pine forests and granite slabs.

Test all placements thoroughly; some sections carry loose flakes.

Plan your descent carefully as there are no fixed anchors on the route.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:At 5.8, Lazy Crack sits comfortably in the approachable trad difficulty range. The grade feels consistent with typical moderate Colorado cracks, rewarding climbers with reliable jams and straightforward sequences. While not pushing physical limits, a clean technique is essential, especially where jams widen mid-route. Compared to nearby Scorpio Dome lines, this climb is on the softer side but still delivers enough challenge to feel worthwhile.

Gear Requirements

Bring a standard rack up to 4 inches plus extra #2 and #3 Camalots for solid mid-section coverage. No fixed anchors exist, so prepare for building a belay at the Scorpio Crack ledge.

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Tags

trad crack
single pitch
granite slab
moderate grade
Colorado Front Range
solid protection