"A short but intense sport climb just outside Golden, Colorado, Say No To Pot challenges climbers with a technical crux mid-route and secure bolting. Compact and demanding, it’s a perfect spot for those sharpening their 5.9 skills in a sunlit canyon setting."
Say No To Pot cuts a direct, punchy line up the sun-warmed walls of Clear Creek Canyon, offering climbers a brisk but intense dose of sport climbing just outside Golden, Colorado. This route demands attention right from the start, as a tricky crux unfolds between the second and third bolts, testing your strength and technique with a precise sequence of moves. The rock here feels alive, each hold offering a distinct texture under your fingertips while the canyon’s buzz hums faintly in the background.
Stretching a mere 50 feet, Say No To Pot packs a surprising amount of challenge into its brief length. The route’s six bolts provide confident protection but expect the crux to push your limits, requiring careful reading and solid footwork before topping out alongside the adjacent climb, Upper Class. The shared two-bolt anchor crowns the ascent, a practical perch for a secure belay and a brief moment to catch your breath before descending.
Approaching the route is straightforward with well-maintained trails threading through a landscape of dry brush and scattered evergreens, offering glimpses of the distinctive rock face from the trailhead. The climb’s south-facing orientation means sunlit walls for much of the day, perfect for shoulder-season climbs when cooler air intensifies the grip but necessitates early starts in summer to avoid heat overload.
Despite its compact stature, Say No To Pot encapsulates the energy of Clear Creek’s sport climbing scene: accessible yet demanding, set against rugged terrain that invites exploration beyond the climb itself. For those keen to hone their 5.9 skills or looking for a quick, sharp problem to warm up or push through, this route presents a balanced invitation to rise to the challenge with clear, confident protection and a friendly vibe.
Before you step onto the rock, ensure your quickdraws are ready and your footwork dialed in to navigate the sustained crux move mid-route. Hydration and sun protection are essential in this exposed environment, and the nearby town of Golden makes for easy logistics and post-climb refueling. All said, Say No To Pot delivers a tightly packed climb where technique meets compact adventure, rewarding focused effort with a crisp sense of accomplishment in a popular Colorado climbing locale.
While the bolting is reliable, be cautious at the crux, where small falls could lead to swing or impact against features. The approach trail is exposed with some loose scree patches, so sturdy footwear is recommended to avoid slips. Also, afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer; plan your climb to avoid being caught out in wet conditions.
Start early in summer to avoid the intense afternoon heat on this south-facing wall.
Wear comfortable shoes with good edging to navigate the technical crux moves.
Hydrate well; water sources are scarce near the trailhead.
Check for loose rock near the base before climbing, especially after wet weather.
The route is protected by six bolts leading to a two-bolt anchor shared with Upper Class. Quickdraws and a standard sport rack suffice, with no traditional gear needed.
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