Pony Up offers a compact but rewarding climb that captures the essence of Clear Creek Canyon’s sport climbing experience. The route launches with a couple of sticky moves right off the ground, demanding precise foot placement and steady hands before easing into a more measured rhythm. Above, the rock shifts character—sections feel a bit crumbly, requiring climbers to test holds carefully and commit with confidence. Despite the brief length, this climb delivers focused climbing that calls for attentive movement and smart gear management.

The route is fortified with seven bolts leading to a well-maintained two-bolt anchor at the top. Recent upgrades to the hardware, including sturdy stainless steel bolts and reliable ClimbTech hangers, have boosted the safety and longevity of the protection. Climbers can expect solid placements with minimal risk, allowing the focus to remain on technique rather than gear placements.

Located on High Wire Crag, Pony Up sits within the larger Clear Creek Canyon system, a popular destination that blends accessible approaches with varied rock faces. The crag faces generally west, soaking up afternoon sun while offering shade in morning hours, making late spring through early fall the most comfortable season to climb. The area’s mountainous backdrop and intermittent breezes provide a refreshing contrast to the focused physical effort on the wall.

Getting to High Wire Crag is straightforward with well-marked trailheads leading into clear, steady paths. The approach is short and manageable, making it ideal for climbers looking to combine a quick warm-up route with longer projects nearby. The overall terrain is a mix of loose scree and packed dirt, so solid trail shoes with good grip are recommended.

For climbers ready to tackle Pony Up, bring fresh shoes with precise edging ability and maintain a mindset attuned to variable rock quality. Hydrate well, especially in warmer months when the canyon heats up, and allocate time during cooler parts of the day to avoid the sun’s most intense hours. Whether stepping up as an introduction to Clear Creek Canyon sport routes or adding a quick ascent to your day, Pony Up rewards with straightforward climbing and the kind of real rock feel that sharpens skills and builds confidence.