"Reach for It challenges climbers with a direct, gear-dependent crack climb that demands precise placements and steady moves. Perfect for trad climbers seeking a technical single pitch within Boulder Canyon’s famed cliffs."
Reach for It offers a tightly focused trad adventure on Short Cliff’s rugged face, beckoning climbers with a sharp vertical groove that tests gear judgment and steady movement. Situated just right of the familiar Mirage route, this climb threads a clean crack system that demands both skill and a calm mindset, especially as placements prove less than bombproof and the holds require an assertive reach. The climb stretches a solid 95 feet, a single pitch rising straight to a tree perched at the top of the line where Catalyst and Mirage converge.
From the base, the route’s flake projects sharply, initially avoided by many, but with a confident step and reach, it opens the path upward. Protecting with cams and wires from medium small to the largest Dragon cams, the leader must be prepared for placements made from tricky stances—this is not a climb for the casual gear lugger. A taller climber will find the holds and placements more accessible, but all will need to manage a careful balance between audacity and caution.
The rock’s cool surface is often numbing, especially as the climb progresses toward the tree top where the crack veers gently right. The exposure is moderate but enough to make you focus on each move and protection placement. After topping out, the descent veers right onto familiar walking terrain, offering a straightforward exit back to the trailhead.
Short Cliff itself is part of Boulder Canyon’s thriving climbing landscape, where routes range from technical sport lines to wild trad challenges. Reach for It stands out for its straightforward approach yet nuanced protection, a route that demands clear planning and respect for the rock’s quirks. Ideal in cooler seasons when warmth won’t sap your grip strength, this climb rewards those who come prepared with a solid rack of cams and stoppers and a sharp eye for gear placement.
Prepare for a climb that blends a tangible sense of exposure and gear-focused strategy with a crisp view of Boulder’s natural cliff faces. This line is a purposeful choice for the trad enthusiast looking to sharpen skills on less-traveled but approachable terrain.
Protection can be marginal, with many placements requiring awkward body positions on a sharp flake edge. The cold rock can sap finger sensitivity, increasing slip risk. Maintain deliberate movements and double-check your gear before committing to sections.
Start climbing just right of Mirage’s sharp flake, carefully planning your first protection.
Taller climbers may find placements easier to reach; shorter climbers should focus on dynamic moves.
Cool, shaded conditions can numb fingers—consider bringing gloves for the approach and extended rest breaks.
Descent follows a straightforward walk-off to the right after topping out near the Mirage tree.
Bring a rack with medium to large cams, including red C3 sizes through the largest Dragons (#4 C4 equivalent). Expect to place protection from awkward stances and be ready for less-than-perfect placements.
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