Rising steadily from the shaded creekside in Boulder Canyon, Los Pinos (The Pines) stretches over 450 feet of classic Colorado trad climbing that demands both finesse and caution. This five-pitch route effortlessly blends technical finger cracks with looser, more adventurous terrain as it ascends the jagged face of Tonnere Tower. The first pitches float above a cool creek alcove where dappled sunlight filters through pine branches, offering a calm before the thrilling ascent ahead.

The route’s standout section—the second pitch—is a striking finger crack that angles right through tiny pine saplings stubbornly rooted in the rock. This pitch is a delicate dance of balance and precision, protected by a handful of bolts and well-chosen placements of small cams. The natural obstacles here animate the climb, turning rock and tree alike into active participants daring you forward. Beyond this, the climb shifts character: less polished, littered with patches of lichen and pockets of vegetation that remind you this is a wild place, where the rock's rawness tests your commitment with loose blocks and uncertain holds.

Approaching from the north creekside trail, the route’s proximity to water lends a constant soundtrack of rustling currents that energize every move. The initial pitches feature reliable bolt anchors, allowing climbers the option to retreat by rappel if the summit push isn’t in their plans. But for those venturing higher, the final pitches bring a more rugged experience—moderate hand cracks, steep slabs, and exposed ledges crowned by lone pine trees serving as natural belays.

Protection on Los Pinos is straightforward but demands a well-rounded rack: small to mid-sized cams—including green and yellow Aliens—complement the fixed bolts on the lower pitches, while larger cams up to a #3 Camalot handle the more spacious cracks above. Expect some cleaning on upper pitches; loose rock is common, so keep a steady eye and a confident rack management strategy.

The descent is a thoughtful journey south to a notch behind the tower before dropping east through a vegetated gully. This approach carries its own risks; slipping rock and loose debris make careful footing essential. Timing your climb during stable, dry weather is crucial, especially to avoid wet gear dragging through creek sections or slippery lichens.

For those wanting a compact day of highlights, pairing the first two pitches of Spirit on the Water with the signature second pitch of Los Pinos creates a concentrated experience of the area’s best climbing. This trio showcases technical jamming, thoughtful gear placements, and the quiet conversations that develop between climber and rock.

Los Pinos offers a route that’s more than a vertical passage—it’s a test of patience and observation, a climb where nature’s subtle challenges demand respect. With each pitch, the tower’s raw face reveals new textures and demands a keen balance of precision and adventure. Weatherproof your plans, double-check your rack, and prepare to meet the rock on its terms.