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Militant at Weller Slab: A Solid Trad Climb Near Independence Pass, Colorado

Aspen, Colorado United States
slab climbing
left-facing dihedral
two-pitch
small gear
brushy sections
moderate trad
Length: 310 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
2
Location
Militant
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Militant at Weller Slab presents a straightforward yet rewarding two-pitch trad climb just outside Independence Pass. Featuring slabby terrain with striking dihedrals, it offers solid moderate moves and a graceful alpine setting that’s approachable for trad climbers seeking their next challenge."

Militant at Weller Slab: A Solid Trad Climb Near Independence Pass, Colorado

Militant offers an accessible yet engaging two-pitch trad climb perched on Weller Slab, just off Independence Pass in Colorado. The route opens with a left-facing crescent dihedral that leaps upward into a clean, slabby face. The first pitch, about 150 feet, navigates this terrain with careful moves that demand focus and a steady foot. Around the belay stance, set on a secure ledge with a fixed pin, the rock opens into a spacious left-facing dihedral for the second pitch.

This second section stretches 160 feet, tracing the dihedral’s natural line until you reach a notch that marks the highlight of the climb. Here, you emerge from the protection of the dihedral onto a more exposed slab, where the climbing feels less forgiving. The move requires confident footwork and a calm approach to manage the runout section above. A belay is set at a tree near the top, from which a straightforward walk-off descent leads you left, easing the transition back to the trailhead.

Weller Slab’s rock invites small cams and stoppers, reinforcing the need for a well-rounded trad rack. The bushy patches along the route add a raw element to the experience—plan for some light bushwhacking as you negotiate the terrain. Climbing shoes with solid edging capability and prepared hands for delicate placements will help steady your progress.

Set against the sweeping alpine backdrop near Independence Pass, the area offers more than just rock. The air carries a crisp mountain bite, and the rhythms of high-altitude winds send whispers through nearby pines. The climb rewards those who appreciate quiet, focused moves framed by open sky and rocky walls. Ideal for climbers stepping up their trad game with moderate challenges, Militant strikes a balance between manageable difficulty and meaningful exposure.

Climber Safety

Expect some bushy patches along the route that may obscure gear placements—constant vigilance is key. The upper slab section has sparse protection and a longer runout, so stay calm and protect carefully. Approach and descent require attention to footing, especially on loose or narrow trail segments near the top.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches2
Length310 feet

Local Tips

Plan your climb for mid-summer to early fall to avoid early snow and rock frost.

Start early in the day to benefit from cool morning temperatures on the slab.

Stay aware of the brush encountered—wear long pants to protect against minor scrapes.

The walk-off descent heads left from the top; follow cairns and avoid fragile ledges.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:The 5.8 grade feels true to its reputation with solid but manageable moves. The crux sits on the upper second pitch where you climb out of the dihedral onto the more exposed slab. This runout section requires confident foot placement. Compared to other regional moderate trad routes, Militant leans slightly toward balance and technique rather than pure power.

Gear Requirements

Pack a trad rack with small cams and stoppers ready for tricky placements. The route’s slab sections demand precise footwork; hands need to be prepared for protection tucked among light bushes. Bring quickdraws, a few alpine runners for the fixed pin belay, and a sturdy approach shoe for the walk-off.

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Tags

slab climbing
left-facing dihedral
two-pitch
small gear
brushy sections
moderate trad