"Over Time is a focused single-pitch sport climb on Colorado Springs’ South Buttress. This 5.8 route challenges you with a tight corner, a loose layback, and a memorable roof pull, all protected by seven well-placed bolts."
Over Time offers a brief but intense introduction to sport climbing perched on the South Buttress of North Cheyenne Canyon, just outside Colorado Springs. With a single pitch bolted thoughtfully over solid rock, this 5.8 climb challenges you to steady your nerves as you navigate the initial tight right-facing corner, which quickly demands a careful layback move on somewhat loose holds. The route then veers right toward an unmistakable roof, a defining feature that tests your upper body strength and technique as you pull through it to reach the chain anchor above.
The route’s setting on South Buttress provides a raw and accessible climbing experience, framed by the rugged Colorado landscape’s characteristic mix of pine and rock. As you ascend, the quiet hum of the surrounding forest lends a grounded atmosphere while distant views of the canyon open up, reminding you of the wilderness beyond the wall. The climb completes swiftly, making it a smart choice for those wanting a focused dose of climbing without an extended commitment.
Protection is straightforward, with seven bolts spaced to keep falls manageable, but the initial corner's loose section requires extra attention to foot placement and body position. This pitch is an excellent spot to dial in your sport climbing technique—especially for those acclimating to the local rock—and a reliable anchor awaits at the end for quick top-outs or to belay a partner.
Plan your climb during cooler morning hours to avoid the sun baking the rock and making holds slick. Footwear with a firm, responsive sole will aid edging on the smaller holds through the layback section, and a comfortable rack of quickdraws matching the bolt count will keep gear management simple.
Access to South Buttress is straightforward; a clear trail leads from the parking area into North Cheyenne Canyon, with GPS coordinates helping you find the base quickly. The climb’s compact nature makes it well-suited for a half-day session or when paired with other nearby sport routes that offer a gradual progression in difficulty.
For Colorado climbers or visitors keen on a solid 5.8 test over short terrain with a distinctive roof move, Over Time stands out as a practical and engaging route. Expect focused effort, a brush with loosening features early on, and a rewarding pull over the roof to seal the deal. This climb is a precise snapshot of Colorado Springs’ approachable climbing character—raw, real, and ready to be climbed.
The first move’s loose rock demands caution—test holds thoroughly and avoid placing full weight on questionable edges. Falling here could lead to a swing into the rock face. Always wear a helmet and double-check anchor integrity at the top before weighting the chain.
Approach early to avoid sun exposure on the rock.
Use climbing shoes with firm edging capability for better footwork in the layback section.
Check holds in the initial corner carefully due to some loose rock.
Bring enough quickdraws to clip all bolts without skipping protection.
Seven bolts and a solid anchor secure this brief but engaging climb. Quickdraws for all bolts plus a belay device for the anchor are essential.
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