POS Dihedral presents a straightforward yet rewarding trad climb on the north-facing walls of North Table Mountain, just outside Golden, Colorado. This 40-foot single-pitch route trades the intense crux of the adjacent Polar Sandals for a more approachable challenge, making it an appealing option for climbers eager to sample the area without diving into its hardest moves. The climb begins with a moderately featured 5.7 section that leads into the main dihedral, where solid hand jams and finger locks provide a steady rhythm, inviting you into the quiet, sun-bleached sandstone etched with traces of lichen that soften the rock’s sheer face. While the lichen presence is noticeable, it’s far from a hindrance and subtly colors the rock’s golden hues, reflecting the warm light of the midday sun.

Gear up with a standard trad rack extending to a #3 Camalot, as ample crack placements line the dihedral, though none are overly tricky, offering secure protection for both novice and experienced trad climbers. The anchors at the top are flexible; you can clip into the Solar Panel anchors to the right or the Polar Sandals anchors slightly above to the left, depending on your desired descent or continuation of the climb.

The route's final segment—about 15 feet leading up to the Solar Panel anchor—introduces a brief but meaningful crux where technique and commitment matter. This move demands careful footwork and precise hand placement, a neat reward that lends the climb a satisfying finish. POS Dihedral doesn’t boast the star ratings of flashier climbs in the Haas/Schneider guidebook, but it remains a practical, enjoyable experience that provides a solid sense of North Table Mountain's characteristic vertical sandstone texture without overwhelming you.

Approaching the climb is similarly accessible. The trailhead sits within a short walk from established parking areas near Golden, with a well-trodden path that winds through open brush toward the cliff base. Expect a light brush of pines and scrub, stirring with local bird calls and the occasional rush of wind along the cliffs. The route faces north, ideal for morning or late afternoon ascents when the sun softens and the rock temperature is comfortable—a crucial detail in Colorado’s fickle weather.

When planning your climb, remember to bring sturdy trad gear, footwear suitable for friction on sandstone, and sufficient hydration. Although short, the climb demands respect for the local environment; the lichen growth indicates a somewhat delicate rock face, so careful foot placement will both preserve the quality of the route and maintain safety. For descent, either lower off using the fixed anchors or downclimb carefully along established holds, aware that the top-out ledge is narrow and requires steady footing.

POS Dihedral is a solid introduction to climbing at North Table Mountain—modest in length but rich in teaching moments. It balances manageable difficulty, pleasant surroundings, and enough technical interest to satisfy a broad spectrum of climbers. If you’re passing through Golden, this route offers a quick yet genuine taste of Colorado’s classic sandstone trad climbing with minimal fuss. Whether you seek a warm-up for longer routes or a standalone adventure, it stands as a quiet invitation to step onto the rock and engage directly with mountain terrain shaped by time and nature’s quiet persistence.