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Supersonic: A Focused Dance on North Cheyenne’s Flying Buttress

Colorado Springs, Colorado United States
sport climbing
slab climbing
run-out
small-stopper placement
single pitch
Colorado Springs
Length: 200 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Supersonic
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Supersonic on the Flying Buttress offers a compelling sport climb with a blend of technical slab moves and run-out bolt spacing. It’s perfect for climbers seeking a line that sharpens footwork and mental focus in North Cheyenne Canyon’s rugged granite."

Supersonic: A Focused Dance on North Cheyenne’s Flying Buttress

Supersonic stands out on the Flying Buttress in North Cheyenne Canyon as an approachable yet rewarding sport climb that invites you into Colorado’s rugged granite with a distinct personality. Starting from the ledge where a large tree marks the spot, it shares this entry with the more commonly known Hanging Gardens. But where Hanging Gardens shoots straight up with loose rock near its summit, Supersonic veers left, following a line of bolts that guard a route characterized by slick slab moves and a few run-out sections that test your confidence.

From the ground, the route demands a steady focus. The initial moves stretch your comfort zone—bolt spacing opens up here, requiring thoughtful gear placement to bridge the gaps. Supplement your quickdraws with small to medium stoppers to build a safer ladder as you climb. The protection is solid but not generous, reminding you that this isn’t a climb to rush.

Texture shifts along the wall, transitioning from vertical cracks to polished slabs that demand precise footwork. The cliff seems to breathe beneath your fingertips, as natural features coax and challenge you in equal measure. Near the top, a closed-off ledge offers a possible belay stance if you prefer to break the 200-foot pitch into two sections, though many send it in a single push.

This route’s allure lies in its mix of technical climbing and natural flow. The slab finish rewards those who trust their feet and read the subtle contours of the rock. Though not a polished gem like some other climbs in the area, Supersonic’s character—somewhat raw but with flashes of quality movement—makes it a worthy addition to your North Cheyenne lineup.

Accessing the Flying Buttress means a straightforward approach via the North Cheyenne Canyon trail system. The well-maintained paths through ponderosa pines clear to a clearing below the cliff within 15–20 minutes from the trailhead. The exposure on the cliff makes early morning or late afternoon the ideal windows to avoid the drench of midday sun.

For practical climbing preparation, bring a standard sport rack centered on quickdraws, complemented by a handful of small nuts or stoppers to back up the less frequent bolts. Wear shoes that balance sensitivity with grip, since the slabby finish demands solid footing. Hydration is key, especially during warmer months when the canyon’s dry air pushes the limit on your endurance.

Supersonic offers a climb that encourages both focus and flow. It’s a route for climbers ready to step into a line with little margin for error but plenty of chances for rewarding movement. Whether you’re arriving from Colorado Springs or traveling visitors drawn by Cheyenne’s climbing reputation, this route holds an invitation to sharpen your skills amidst a landscape that quietly commands respect.

Climber Safety

Bolt spacing near the start is generous, making supplementary gear and cautious movement essential on this section. The slab finish can feel insecure if foot placements aren’t locked in, so avoid rushing and be mindful of loose rock near the upper anchors.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length200 feet

Local Tips

Start climbing early or late in the day to avoid the sun’s heat on the slabby finish.

Consider breaking the pitch at the closed ledge for a safer, two-pitch ascent.

Check your stopper placements carefully; the initial section is run-out and requires solid gear choices.

Wear climbing shoes with sticky rubber for confident steps on the slab.

Hydrate well as the dry canyon air can quickly sap your energy.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9-
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9- grade reads a bit soft technically, but the spacing between bolts introduces a mental challenge that can bump the overall effort. The climb demands precise footwork, especially on the slabby top section, while the run-out beginning keeps awareness high. Compared to other local climbs, Supersonic leans toward a nervous confidence test rather than sustained difficulty.

Gear Requirements

Prepare a sport rack loaded with quickdraws and bring a selection of small to medium stoppers to place in the run-out sections. Fixed anchors are shared with Hanging Gardens at the top.

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Tags

sport climbing
slab climbing
run-out
small-stopper placement
single pitch
Colorado Springs