"NW Arete provides an accessible yet engaging introduction to Boulder Canyon’s granite walls. This single-pitch trad climb offers solid protection and a blend of overhanging jugs and crack climbing, perfect for warming up before deeper adventures."
Just a short jaunt on the edge of Boulder Canyon, NW Arete at Retirement Rock offers an approachable yet engaging introduction to the steep granite terrain that defines this climbing hotspot. This single-pitch trad route stretches roughly 60 feet upwards, guiding you through a sequence that blends solid holds with technical crack climbing, making it an ideal warm-up before tackling the more demanding lines nearby. The climb begins with a few overhanging jugs that demand controlled power and precision, encouraging climbers to find their rhythm early on. From there, the rock opens into a crack system extending nearly to the summit, inviting hands and fingers to settle into the rough granite. Switching left near the top, you’ll clip the final bolt on the adjacent Senior Discount route— a quick reminder of the area's mixed protection style.
Retirement Rock is perched in Boulder’s iconic canyon, where the surrounding granite walls cast shifting shadows as the sun arcs overhead, giving the climb a dynamic feel across different times of day. The air often carries the faint scent of pine and dry stone, and the buzz of nearby wildlife punctuates moments of stillness as you ascend. With cams ranging from 1" to 4" protecting the line, NW Arete demands a well-stocked rack yet rewards with secure placements on solid rock.
For climbers searching for a route that balances straightforward movement with sufficient protection, this climb stands out. It’s neither a scramble nor a full-on test piece, but it primes the body and mind in preparation for harder battles on routes that hug the canyon’s rugged face. Getting here requires a short, accessible walk from the Boulder Canyon trailhead, making it a perfect choice whether you’re warming up or squeezing in a brief session amid a longer day of climbing.
This route captures the essence of Boulder Canyon’s climbing ethos—solid granite, reliable gear placements, and a culture that caters to all skill levels. It’s a spot where adventure meets pragmatism, offering moments that are as much about refining technique as they are about reading the rock beneath your hands. With just two votes but consistent appeal, NW Arete invites you to invest your energy in mastering that first pitch, preparing you to push further into the granite playground that surrounds this vibrant Colorado climbing community.
While protection is generally good with cams, the final moves near the bolt require attention to clipping smoothly. The granite can be sharp, so cautious belaying and careful gear placement to avoid rope drag are advised. Avoid climbing if the rock is wet or after heavy precipitation.
Start early to avoid midday sun on the rock face.
Bring a standard set of camming devices including small to mid-sized cams.
Check weather forecasts—granite holds can get slick after rain.
Use approach shoes as the trail is well-defined but rocky.
A rack of cams ranging from 1 to 4 inches is essential for solid protection throughout this route, which balances fixed bolts with traditional placements.
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