North American Classic Climbs

The Yellow Spur

(Eldorado Canyon)

This route lies on the West Face of the Redgarden Wall in Colorado's Eldorado Canyon, one of the most important cragging areas in the U.S. The area boasts a significant history, including advancement of climbing standards by some of the legends of the sport. The first ascent and first free ascent of the Yellow Spur involved the best rock climbers on the continent at the time.

For many locals who frequent the Canyon from the metropolitan areas of Denver and Boulder, this is a favorite route. Each pitch is unique and offers memorable climbing (well, OK, the 4th is nothing to write home about), the positions are superb, and the climbing continuous and challenging for its grade. Unlike many cragging routes, this one ends on a real summit (called Tower 1) with excellent views of the canyon to the west and Denver to the east.

Type:

Lowland Rock

Seriousness:

Location:

Near Boulder, CO, USA

References:

G1, W34

Rating:

III, 5.9

Route Descriptions & Maps:

First Ascent:
First Free Ascent:

L. Kor & D. Dorman, 1959
R. Robbins, P. Ament, 1964

Trip Reports:

Stanley, 8/02