Rhodian, Naturally offers a clear invitation to climbers who prefer the art of traditional protection over fixed hardware. Sitting just left of the better-known Bihedral Line on the Upper Tier of The Bihedral Area in Boulder Canyon, this single-pitch route carves a backward S through a series of inviting cracks and grooves. The climb moves through natural weaknesses in the rock, weaving through carefully placed jams and slotted placements that demand attention to detail and respect for subtle protection placements. Approaching Rhodian, Naturally means embracing an early start: the wall basks in gentle shade until late morning, giving climbers a cool window before the sun pushes higher over the horizon.

The approach involves a short scramble up to the ledges beneath The Bihedral. From here, stepping left of the sport-dominated Rhodian Shores, the route begins its signature traverse along narrow crack lines, threading small wires, brassies, and strategically placed small cams to unlock the crux sections. Experienced trad climbers will appreciate the balance of challenge and exposure — this climb negotiates a loose rhythm between harder moves up high and steadier holds below, leading to a jug shared with Rhodian Shores and eventually to larger jams requiring #3 to #4 Camalots. A final traverse to the right takes you through another groove and ends at the anchor point either for Rhodian Shores or the belay for Bihedral itself, making this route a useful alternative or warm-up pitch on the Upper Tier.

Though bolts appear on nearby lines and can be clipped to reduce runout, Rhodian, Naturally retains its appeal for those who seek a purer trad experience. Its protective gear requires a thoughtful rack, especially focusing on wires, small cams, and a handful of larger pieces for the wide cracks near the top. The rock demands clean, controlled technique with occasional runouts that reward confident footwork and precise gear placement. This climb is not for those who prefer sport clipping as the primary protection style.

Boulder Canyon’s characteristic granite demands respect but rewards with spectacular views and an intimate engagement with the stone. The morning coolness and partial shade offer a pleasant climbing environment during summer and shoulder seasons, but consider weather patterns carefully during colder months. The route’s moderate length of 110 feet makes it accessible as a stand-alone challenge or part of a longer climbing itinerary in the area.

For route-finders, this climb has a specific role as a trad alternative to the more crowded sport climbs nearby. The nature of the protection and grade — 5.9 with R rating — suggests some careful risk management, particularly in the runout sections, but the crux tends to feel solid for those comfortable with commitment on granite. This route invites traditional climbers to appreciate the subtlety of the stone’s natural weaknesses, a move away from clipped bolts and an embrace of instinctive trad tactics.

Preparations for Rhodian, Naturally should include a comprehensive rack up to #4 Camalots, adequate hydration for Boulder’s dry climate, and footwear that can handle the varied crack widths encountered. The approach is short but involves delicate scrambling on uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes and attentiveness during access are essential. Timing the climb in morning hours will maximize comfort before the sun warms the wall.

In summary, Rhodian, Naturally offers a grounded tradition-first alternative on Boulder Canyon’s well-traveled tier. It’s a focused opportunity to sharpen crack climbing, hone gear-placement skills, and enjoy a stretch of granite that stays refreshingly shaded early in the day. The blend of crack sequences, subtle runouts, and natural protection challenges create a route that feels both practical and rewarding for dedicated trad climbers who relish the nuance of guiding gear through granite’s less obvious lines.