"Weather Report is a well-defined sport climb on a clean arete at the base of Midnight Rock. It challenges climbers with a tough initial section before easing into smooth, accessible movement—a rewarding, quality climb close to Boulder’s edge."
Weather Report delivers a sharp dose of classic Colorado sport climbing just off the beaten path in Upper Dream Canyon. This single-pitch route dances up a clean, well-defined arete at the base of Midnight Rock, offering a focused challenge wrapped in solid quality stone. Approach it from the steep trail thirty feet downhill from the imposing big roof landmark—here, the rock demands attention right away. The route opens with a series of demanding moves that test your power and precision as you make your way to the first bolt. Once through this initial sequence, the climb opens up into a flowy rhythm, allowing you to relax and savor the movement along the clean face edge. The texture is crisp, the holds sharp, and the line strikes a balance between technical finesse and smooth climbing.
Every hold offers purposeful feedback under your fingertips, and the rock’s texture provides confident smears or edges to push through the crux. The climb feels like a conversation with the stone—insistent yet rewarding. A 60-meter rope is necessary to top-rope or lower cleanly, and the setup is straightforward with nine quickdraws clipped to a solid two-bolt anchor system. Rock quality here is excellent, making each movement secure and dependable.
Upper Dream Canyon itself sits within a rugged Boulder landscape known for its diverse climbing options and breathable desert-like sun exposure. You’ll find the area to be quiet and personal, far enough from the busiest corridors while still easily accessible from Boulder. Climbing Weather Report offers a practical yet invigorating training ground, perfect for those looking to sharpen sport climbing skills on stiff but manageable terrain. Expect to spend roughly 10 to 15 minutes navigating the approach trail which features mixed dirt and loose rock—steady shoes with solid traction are advised.
Timing your climb for early morning or late afternoon ensures the face stays cool, as the route catches sun through midday and can warm up quickly under direct exposure. The crux moves near the start call for focused effort, so come well-hydrated and warmed up. Local climbers often recommend this climb as a go-to route before hitting longer multi-pitch adventures nearby or exploring the varied climbs that spike the Midnight Rock area.
This climb gives you the tangible thrill of edging along a clean vertical plane, the kind of sport climbing that sharpens your technique without overstaying its welcome. Simple to reach yet offering enough challenge to keep you engaged, Weather Report at Midnight Rock stands out as a solid introduction to Boulder’s approachable sport crags while rewarding attentive footwork and route reading.
The route is protected by bolts with reliable anchors, but the approach trail has loose rock and steep sections—watch your footing, especially when carrying a heavy pack or after rain. The rock face can become slick if wet, so avoid climbing after precipitation.
Start early or late in the day to avoid direct sun on the face and keep the rock cool.
Wear shoes with sturdy edging capability to manage the initial crux moves.
Approach trail is loose in spots—use trekking poles if needed for stability.
Check local weather forecasts as sudden afternoon winds can sweep through Upper Dream Canyon.
Bring nine quickdraws and a 60-meter rope to lower off the two-bolt anchor. The protection is well-placed along the route, making it straightforward to clip and safe to lower.
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