"Left Behind is a solid 5.8 trad climb on North Table Mountain’s MBA Buttress, featuring a dynamic stem start, a widening chimney, and a straightforward anchor rappel. Ideal for climbers seeking accessible crack climbing with a touch of technical finesse."
Left Behind offers climbers a grounded, rewarding crack line on North Table Mountain's MBA Buttress—a route that invites both emerging crack enthusiasts and seasoned climbers looking for straightforward, technical fun. The climb begins with a lower section featuring a hands-on stem problem that rewards careful footwork and precise cam placements within the narrow seam. The rock here feels alive beneath your fingers as you navigate the modest overhangs and thin edges.
As you ascend, the crack broadens, evolving into a chimney that demands full-body engagement and thoughtful moves to negotiate the wider openings. Near the top, the route takes a slight right move before finishing at the anchor bolts, where you can rest and prep for descent. While the upper crack section carries a patch of bird droppings, climbers can easily skirt around it, preserving the integrity of the climb and minimizing disruption.
The approach to Left Behind is uncomplicated but benefits from an eye for footholds as you navigate the talus field leading to the base. This 70-foot pitch fits well within a morning or afternoon climbing window, especially given the eastern exposures that bring warmth to cooler days. Its moderate 5.8 rating places it firmly in the accessible climbing arena, inviting a wide range of technical abilities without demanding extreme endurance or power.
Protection on Left Behind flows naturally with a standard trad rack; small cams stabilize early stem moves, while larger pieces secure the crux chimney section comfortably. The established bolt anchor on the neighboring Good Man Dan route ensures a safe and easy rappel off the cliff.
This climb is part of the rugged Golden Cliffs area, known for its open exposure, clean rock faces, and proximity to the urban backdrop of Golden, Colorado. Despite its closeness to city life, the vibe here is refreshingly raw and adventurous—perfect for those who seek rock climbing routes that deliver hands-on challenges without the crowds or excessive remoteness.
For anyone mapping out their day on North Table Mountain, Left Behind promises a balanced outing: a tangible crack climb with enough length to feel like an adventure, yet concise enough to allow multiple laps or a quick dose of fun before chasing other local lines. Hydration and sturdy footwear are essential—loose rock and tricky footing near the base call for vigilance. Timing your climb to avoid the midday heat will help maintain grip quality and comfort.
In all, Left Behind invites you to engage your technique, appreciate the mountain’s grit, and enjoy a climb that rewards attention to detail without overextending. Whether you’re tuning your crack skills or adding a solid trad pitch to your logbook, this route stands as a practical, thrilling slice of Golden’s climbing offerings.
The approach includes loose talus and uneven footing—take care to watch your step to avoid sprains. On the route, parts of the upper crack have bird droppings; steer clear of these to keep holds clean and reduce slipping hazards.
Wear shoes with sticky rubber for secure footing on stem moves.
Watch for loose rock near the trail and base; step carefully.
Avoid climbing midday in summer to reduce heat impact on grip.
Plan your rappel using the neighboring Good Man Dan anchor for safety.
Bring a standard trad rack focusing on small cams for the stem start and larger sizes for the chimney section. Use the fixed bolt anchor on Good Man Dan for a smooth rappel.
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