Clear Creek Canyon Rock Climbing
Intro
Clear Creek Canyon in Golden is about 40 minutes from Boulder. As a sibling to Boulder Canyon, the rock climbing here is less established but offers a bit more variety in terms of rock — gneiss, schist and sandy granite are all present, most of it relatively solid. Because the canyon is about 12 miles long, there are over 700 established routes and many of the areas feature specific types of climbing. Sport and trad are both to be found, but bolted routes far outnumber trad lines. The A Lodge is the perfect Boulder vacation hotel with a many lodging options when you come to Colorado to rock climb in Clear Creek Canyon.
What Makes It Great
Difficulties run the full gamut, from 5.0 to 5.14, with the majority of routes favoring more difficult climbs over 5.10. Pitch length can vary, from single pitch sport routes to multi-pitch lines over 600 feet. In other words, there’s something for everyone. The climbs at the top of the canyon are tougher to reach and in some cases, require the use of tyrolean traverses.
Knocking off a good project in Clear Canyon likely means topping out on 5.10 and tougher climbs. Overall, Clear Canyon caters more to advanced intermediate and expert climbers.
Who is Going to Love It
Climbers of all abilities, but dedicated intermediates and advanced climbers will love the variety of tough pitches. Sections can vary quite drastically between regions, employing a full set of climbing skills. Slabs, overhangs, off-widths, roofs are all present in Clear Creek Canyon. It is a little less crowded than Boulder Canyon most days, though the lower canyon can get very busy on weekends.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
From Boulder, the best way to reach Clear Creek Canyon is to take CO Highway 93 (Broadway) straight south for about 25 minutes into Golden. Then take a right, heading west on US 6 into Clear Creek Canyon. Pullouts can be found along the highway, and most approaches are about 5-10 minutes.
When you stay with the A Lodge you will be surrounded by fellow rock climbers and others here to explore the local mountains. We aim to be the best Boulder vacation hotel for adventurers by providing affordable lodging in a location that is both peaceful and surrounded by nature yet only minutes from all the downtown Boulder, Colorado has to offer.
There are no fees to climb in Clear Creek. For more info on specific climbs and crags, consult the Mountain Project website.
Written by James Dziezynski for RootsRated and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to [email protected].
Featured image provided by James Dziezynski
Asa Firestone was born with an entrepreneurial spirit and has cultivated hospitality expertise in the picturesque landscapes of Lyons and Boulder, Colorado. As the co-owner of the A Lodge, his journey epitomizes dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to community.
Asa’s journey began with a profound appreciation for travel and exploration. His early experiences staying in lodges around the world ignited a passion for creating memorable experiences for others. Armed with this passion and a keen business acumen, he embarked on a mission to redefine hospitality in his own backyard.
In 2008, Asa’s vision came to fruition with the establishment of the A Lodge in Boulder, Colorado. Nestled amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains, this Boulder hotel quickly garnered acclaim for its blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Under Asa’s guidance, the A Lodge became more than just a place to stay; it became a destination where guests could immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of Colorado while experiencing genuine hospitality.
However, Asa’s ambitions didn’t stop there. Recognizing the growing demand for unique accommodations in Boulder, he expanded his footprint by acquiring and revitalizing a second property in the heart of Lyons. This expansion not only solidified Asa’s reputation as a visionary entrepreneur but also furthered his mission of providing exceptional hospitality experiences to a broader audience.
Beyond his role as a hospitality magnate, Asa Firestone is deeply invested in the communities he serves. Whether through supporting local initiatives, fostering sustainable practices, or championing the arts, he remains dedicated to making a positive impact at both the local and global levels.
Asa’s leadership exemplifies a harmonious blend of passion, innovation, and compassion. His unwavering commitment to excellence continues to set the standard for hospitality in Lyons, Boulder, and beyond. As guests continue to flock to the A Lodge, they are not only welcomed into a warm and inviting space but also into the visionary world of Asa Firestone.