"Not Alone is a precise trad climb hugging a right-facing corner before challenging you with a crux near a black streak on the left wall. Its moderate 5.8 rating and classic protection needs make it a compelling line for climbers honing gear skills in the Devil’s Head area."
Situated on the rugged face of Radio Head within the Devil's Head area near South Platte, Colorado, Not Alone offers a focused trad climbing experience that draws both newcomers seeking solid fifth-class challenges and seasoned climbers sharpening their crack and face skills. This single-pitch, 55-foot route ascends a distinctive right-facing corner, demanding attentive footwork and confident gear placement. As you move upward, the terrain widens toward a dark streak etched into the rock’s left wall—the subtle yet critical crux zone where the climb transitions from straightforward cracks to more delicate face moves. Expect moderate but sustained difficulty leading up to this point, requiring steady technique rather than brute strength.
The rock surfaces here bear the marks of Colorado’s shifting seasons: dry, gritty granite with minor exfoliation that provides a blend of friction and sharp edges. The climb’s protection leans toward a standard rack, but emphasis should be placed on small and medium cams to secure the flared corners effectively. Not Alone concludes under two fixed bolts near the top, offering a reassuring anchor for your belayer or an anchor point for descent.
Getting here is part of the adventure—Radio Head’s approach cuts through pine and scrub, with well-worn trails that demand roughly 20 minutes from the main parking at Devil’s Head. The path is clear but uneven, with quartz outcrops and loose talus sections that keep you alert. Early morning climbs benefit from softer rock temperatures and less direct sun, as the west-facing wall alternates between bright exposure and shaded grooves.
Safety on Not Alone calls for respect of the crux sequence where holds subtly flatten and the black streak presents a challenging friction test. Drop-offs below the route’s corner are moderate, but the rock flakes near the top can be brittle after wet weather, a reminder to assess conditions before ascending. Dry conditions and steady weather patterns typically prevail in late spring through early fall, making this the ideal season to enjoy clear views across South Platte's valley and the high country beyond.
This climb fits well into a day of exploring Radio Head’s varied routes, offering a rewarding stride without overextending energy reserves. It’s particularly well-suited for climbers who appreciate gear-placement practice balanced with engaging movement. Shoes with solid edging ability and gloves or tape to protect hands during jam placements will enhance comfort and safety. Hydration remains crucial, as this exposed ridge can intensify heat buildup despite shaded pockets.
Ultimately, Not Alone invites you to test your precision and composure against a quietly challenging corner system, framed by Colorado’s expansive wilderness. The route’s accessible length paired with its technical crux crafts a climbing memory that’s both manageable and invigorating—a compelling focal point for a day spent on Devil’s Head’s inviting granite walls.
Exercise caution near the black streak where holds flatten and rock quality can degrade after precipitation. Ensure solid gear placement in small cams before committing to moves at the crux, and be mindful of loose rock approaching the top bolts.
Start climbs early to avoid afternoon heat on west-facing walls.
Check rock conditions after rain; top holds near the black streak can be flaky.
Wear shoes with solid edging for better control on face moves.
Use gloves or tape to protect hands during jams in abrasive cracks.
Bring a standard trad rack focusing on small to medium cams to secure the corner sections. Two fixed bolts anchor the top for safe belaying and rappel setup.
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