"Route Number 18 is a straightforward yet engaging sport climb on the upper Bear Bottom Wall. Known for clean lines and controlled rope drag, it offers a rewarding introduction to the Wet Mountains' granite faces, ideal as a warm-up or moderate challenge."
Standing at the base of Bear Bottom Wall, your eyes lock onto the leftmost edge of an imposing granite face that rises sharply above the creek. Route Number 18 is easy to spot by its bright orange hangers, a vivid invitation against the stone. This single-pitch sport climb stretches upwards, daring you to traverse under a roof and then pivot right onto a sharply defined arete before finishing on the ledge-set anchors. The line moves with purpose—starting on the left, you smoothly negotiate the roof, feeling the subtle texture of the rock under each hand as the wall shifts from vertical to slightly overhanging. The rope drag is surprisingly tame here, letting you focus on the fluid movement without constant readjustment. Although modest at a 5.8- rating, Route Number 18 offers engaging sequences that sharpen technique without overwhelming force, making it a perfect warm-up before tackling the steeper, more demanding climbs higher up the wall. The approach from Hardscrabble Pass is straightforward, with a brief walk from the creek along a sparse, rocky path marked by scattered pines. The air has a crisp bite common to the Wet Mountains, and the backdrop of Colorado’s rugged peaks anchors you firmly in the wild. This climb’s simplicity and natural flow ensure it’s approachable for a variety of skill levels, yet still rewards focused attention and careful gear placement. With nine quickdraws and a standard climbing rope, you’re set. Just be sure to carry a longer sling for the first bolt, as it sits slightly to the left, demanding a strategic clip to avoid unnecessary rope tension. When the sun filters through the branches early in the day, it picks out the rough edges of the stone, making for excellent visibility and warmth during chilly shoulder seasons. After the anchor, the ledge offers a moment’s respite to survey the valley below, the sound of the creek threading through the quiet. Descending is a simple rap down the route; the fixed anchors are reliable, but a careful check before trusting is always wise. Route Number 18 at Bear Bottom Wall delivers a concise, clean, and rewarding climb that fits perfectly into a day of sport climbing at Titanic, the rugged gateway to the Wet Mountains.
Watch for rope drag around the roof; using a longer sling on the first bolt reduces tension and prevents wear. Anchor bolts are solid but inspecting hardware before descent is advised. The approach trail can be slippery when wet — good footwear is essential.
Approach from the nearby creek via a short, rocky trail—wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain.
Clip the first bolt carefully with a longer sling to avoid unnecessary rope drag.
Start early to take advantage of morning sun warming the wall during cool seasons.
Check anchor hardware before rappelling for added safety.
Nine quickdraws and a climbing rope cover the entire route and anchors. A longer sling is recommended for the first bolt placed left of the main line to reduce rope drag.
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