The first rays of sunlight cut through the pines as you make your way up the initial hill into the beating heart of Eldorado Canyon State Park. The air is crisp and charged with anticipation — you know you're only a few steps from the start of another memorable climbing day. The Warm-up Blocks, standing like weathered guardians at the foot of your approach, serve as the welcoming committee to this legendary Colorado venue. Their reputation is well-earned: not only are they the first faces you’ll encounter, but they’re also packed with problems that’ll prime your mind and muscles for a full day of adventure.

These three chunky boulders spread across a sloping hillside provide the perfect launchpad for anyone setting foot into Eldo’s world of steep sandstone. The problems here are accessible and inviting, with a little something for both first-timers shaking off the morning chill and seasoned climbers seeking to build momentum before tackling the area’s imposing classics. Don't be fooled by the word “warm-up” though — looks can be deceiving, and some lines will ask for sharp focus and cool technique, serving up far more challenge than their gentle angles suggest.

Crimpy Face (V4) stands out as a favorite, earning its stripes not just for the inviting name but for its reliable technicality. Crisp holds demand precise footwork and finger strength, embodying the understated difficulty that often defines Eldo bouldering. While local lore advises that grades here may appear approachable, don’t be caught off-guard; nuanced movement and careful sequencing are the currency of success.

Navigating the area is straightforward. As you top out the hillside, follow the faint trail etched horizontally along the base connecting all three blocks. Each boulder offers diverse features, but you’ll rarely feel lost — the path is distinct enough, looping hikers and climbers alike through the zone and down to gems like the Low Traverse just below Block 3. With the access trail in decent condition, it’s an easy, efficient start, perfect for groups and solo explorers alike.

Eldorado’s weather cycles are classic Colorado: cool in spring mornings, roasting in late summer, and quick to shift with little warning. The prime climbing seasons fall between late spring and early fall, with autumn’s cool temperatures being particularly comfortable for fingers and skin. Yet, always check current conditions and closures before heading in. The area is highly sensitive to raptor nesting seasons, with periodic closures in place to protect local golden eagles and maintain the balance between recreation and conservation. Responsible climbers should always stay up-to-date on access alerts using official park resources.

Pads are essential — these are beefy boulders with varied landing zones that can get rocky and uneven, especially towards the downslope edges. Two pads per group is a safe bet, with spotters recommended for the higher or more awkward moves. Don’t expect perfectly flat turf, either; a little creativity with pad placement goes a long way here.

The Warm-up Blocks are more than just a pit stop. They are a rite of passage, a gathering spot where locals share beta and visiting climbers find their rhythm for the day. The problems may be short, but the sense of community and the spark of challenge you’ll feel from the moment you chalk up set the tone for the rest of your Eldo adventure. Whether you’re brushing off the travel dust or fine-tuning your movement before eyeing a harder project, these blocks serve up a blend of easy starts and sneaky challenges certain to spark both confidence and respect. They encapsulate what makes Eldorado Canyon a staple in any climber’s logbook: approachable beginnings and an open invitation to test your limits, all in the company of breathtaking scenery and good people. Pack your pads, bring your best shoes, and welcome your day at The Warm-up Blocks.