"Mounty is a balanced trad climb on Lower Capitalist Crag in Clear Creek Canyon, combining steady crack climbing with moderate slab moves. Its accessible length and manageable difficulty make it a favorite for those seeking reliable gear placements and classic Colorado trad exposure."
Mounty offers a straightforward yet satisfying trad climb tucked within the rugged contours of Lower Capitalist Crag in Clear Creek Canyon. Starting roughly 30 feet left of Lunchmoney, this route invites climbers into a sequence of crack systems that angle right before navigating a distinctive jagged left-facing flake. The rock here demands attention—not aggressive but requiring steady footwork and precise placements—as you transition to a looser ledge through slabby moves protected by a single fixed pin. Once past this crux, the climb eases into a moderate 5.6 dihedral on the left side, ending at solid anchors shared with neighboring routes Vitamin-N and Aries after approximately 100 feet of vertical travel.
Clear Creek’s geography lends the climb a practical appeal for trad enthusiasts seeking moderate difficulty within striking proximity to Golden, Colorado. The approach is accessible, with a mellow terrain that retains a hint of rugged adventure. Climbers will find the crack system inviting for hands and fingers, while the jagged flake provides a tactile experience that tests gear placements—a few tricky spots push you to look carefully for bomber protection. The recommended rack emphasizes traditional cams, especially TCUs, complemented by small nuts to secure fragile spots along the route.
While the fixed pin aids safety through the slab, the route rewards climbers who balance caution with confidence. The ledge near the summit requires attention; rock quality here can be loose, reminding climbers to move deliberately and be prepared. Weather and seasonal conditions can shift quickly in this part of Colorado, so timing your climb for dry days and stable forecasts ensures the best experience.
The broader Capitalist Crag area sits tucked within Clear Creek Canyon’s diverse climbing landscapes, offering moderate lines that appeal to trad climbers honing their skills or enjoying accessible multi-pitch adventures. With just one pitch and a manageable length of 100 feet, Mounty functions as a solid introduction or a steady warm-up route. The approach is gentle enough to keep energy focused on the climb, while the shared anchors provide convenient descending options or linkage to other climbs nearby.
For those planning a trip, expect scenic views framed by Colorado’s rocky ridges and the subtle sound of Clear Creek’s currents below, reminding you of the dynamic interaction between rock and water that shapes this climbing zone. Bring layered clothing to adjust for the shifting temperatures at elevation, and sturdy shoes designed for crack climbing. Hydration is essential, as the canyon’s dry air can sap moisture faster than expected.
Mounty’s blend of moderate difficulty, accessible location, and thoughtful protection makes it a worthwhile stop for trad climbers visiting the Clear Creek area. The route’s tactile challenges and straightforward beta encourage a balanced mix of adventure and practicality, giving you a climb that feels rewarding without demanding exhaustive technical mastery.
Watch out for loose rock on the ledge above the slab section and handle placements with care, especially where protection is sparse or less intuitive. The fixed pin guards a key move but don’t rely solely on it; assess each gear placement carefully.
Start roughly 30 feet left of Lunchmoney to follow the correct line on the crack system.
Pay close attention to gear placements on the jagged flake and near the slabby section.
Plan your climb for dry weather – slab moves can be slippery when wet.
Use runners strategically to manage rope drag around gear placements.
Standard trad rack focused on TCUs and small nuts, with an emphasis on careful placement to secure tricky spots. One fixed pin guards slabby moves near the mid-route ledge. Runners help reduce drag on the gear placements.
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