"Leisure Climb offers six pitches of classic trad climbing on the shortest segment of North Chasm View Wall, with sustained exposure and a crux pitch that tests both protection placement and nerves. The route blends technical cracks with scrambling and finishes with a scenic rim walk."
Leisure Climb charts a compelling course up the shortest stretch of North Chasm View Wall, a dramatic face carved into Colorado’s Black Canyon of the Gunnison. From the valley floor, this steep slab resembles a scattered jumble of rock—unassuming at first glance—but as you approach, it reveals subtle lines of solid climbing framed by wide cracks and exposed corners. The route’s first three pitches introduce a perfect blend of technical moves and thoughtful route-finding, rewarding each effort with steady exposure and a steady climb upward. The crux stands out on pitch three—a challenge not just for strength but for judgment. The runout sections demand confidence and focus, reminding climbers that committing without hesitation is vital here, as loose paths lie just out of the main line. Protection is sparse but sufficient, with small cams and micro nuts fitting into thin cracks. For those planning to push the limits, a smart variation leads into a neighboring line known for superior gear and slightly higher grade moves, offering an alternative for steady hands and sharp eyes.
Beyond the climbing itself, the approach and descent provide a full outdoor experience. You’ll scramble up rocky, blocky terrain to reach the base and then descend the Cruise Gully on rappel—a reminder that the adventure continues even after the last anchor. The final pitches ease off, giving climbers a breather on more forgiving terrain, if often loose, as you make your way toward the rim. The route ends with a walk along a sprawling ledge that skirts beneath towering cliffs and winds through forest patches, providing a rare moment to catch your breath while taking in the canyon’s raw vertical beauty.
Preparations are key here. The unpredictability of the rock quality on the upper pitches asks for sturdy footwear and a vigilant eye for fragile holds. Early starts help avoid heat, and hydration is critical since shade is limited on these bright walls. Approach time is moderate but requires attention, and the GPS coordinates can guide you to the right spot—no wandering along this cliff face. Whether you're pushing your comfort zone or climbing to savor a less-traveled path, Leisure Climb challenges skill and attentiveness with rewarding rock and a taste of one of Colorado’s most iconic canyons.
Watch for loose rock on the last several pitches and take care around runout sections, particularly pitch three’s crux. Climbing directly beneath other groups is risky due to potential rockfall. The rappel down Cruise Gully requires attention to anchors and slings; double-check all rigging before descent.
Start early to avoid afternoon sun warming the wall.
Approach via Cruise Gully and scramble up blocky terrain left to reach the base.
Be cautious on the crux pitch; keep focus to avoid getting off-route onto harder, runout terrain.
Prepare for loose rock on the upper pitches and trust your footwork.
Carry a standard rack including micro-nuts and small cams for the crux pitch’s thin placements. A #4 Camalot is mandatory for pitch one, with a #5 optional for added security. No fixed gear; expect to trust your gear judgment especially on the exposed middle pitches.
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