Mournful Mullet carves out a gritty chimney and off-width crack that challenges climbers with a progressive shift from mellow slab to a demanding overhang. Set against the rugged backdrop of North Table Mountain's golden cliffs near Golden, Colorado, this route offers both a test of technique and toughness. The climb opens with a low-angled approach, where footing is reliable and movements smooth, inviting confidence as you start your ascent. But this calm quickly gives way to a narrowing crack that demands precision and power. The chimney tightens, becoming vertical and then overhanging, compelling climbers to employ crack jams and body tension to inch upward.

Protection here is a mix of placing gear within the crack and clipping bolts low on the route—belonging to the area’s "Major Bolt Achievement". Expect to carry a broad cam rack up to a size 6 Camalot to master the challenging off-width section that defines this climb. Recent additions of two bolt anchors, installed in mid-2015, offer a secure belay setup. The wall’s gritty texture offers solid friction, but also warns of sharp edges, making tape and finger care advisable.

Approaching Mournful Mullet involves a straightforward hike up from the popular Golden Cliffs parking, weaving through scrub and rocky terrain, with the cliffs looming ahead as a golden-hued promise of the effort to come. The route’s 45-foot length packs intensity into a short, satisfying pitch, perfect for climbers looking to refine their off-width skills or push their trad endurance in a compact yet demanding setting. Be mindful of the sun’s position; the climb holds well through the mid-morning and afternoon, while the exposed nature means early mornings or late afternoons can bring cooler conditions and less glare.

This climb grounds you in the foundational art of traditional crack climbing—offering a visceral connection to both rock and technique. Whether you're honing crack jams or testing your willingness to commit in tight spaces, Mournful Mullet is a compact adventure that balances approachability with serious challenge. Plan your rack accordingly, hydrate well for the mostly exposed approach, and prepare to engage with a route that rewards controlled power and patience. The surrounding North Table Mountain area adds extra appeal with expansive views of the Front Range foothills and a wild atmosphere shaped by rugged rock and open skies.