Battle of the Bulge carves out a straightforward, engaging trad experience on Combat Rock, set within the sharp contours of Big Thompson Canyon near Estes Park Valley, Colorado. The route extends about 70 feet in a single pitch and demands attention not by raw difficulty but through the subtle reward of well-timed features that arrive right when you need them. Here, the rock challenges you with sampler moves that hint at mounting effort—but just as you anticipate a sustained struggle, a clean, reliable edge appears, steadying your climb and encouraging your ascent.

The approach to this corridor is straightforward for those familiar with the area; the crack is accessible and not overly committing, making it an excellent choice for trad climbers looking to sharpen their crack management and gear placement skills without venturing into long, multi-pitch lines.

Protection calls for a standard rack with an emphasis on smaller cams to fit the narrower hands of the crack, paired with several slings to protect wandering sections. The route persuades you to plan gear placements carefully, as the line doesn’t follow a direct path but meanders enough to test your judgment in extending placements. Anchoring is simple and safe, ending at a reliable two-bolt bolt anchor shared with the adjacent Arkansas Patriot route, allowing for an efficient, confident top-rope setup or a smooth rap.

The granite here bears the quiet voice of the cliffside—coarse but not abrasive, providing solid friction as you move upward. The wall is exposed to sunlight for much of the day, which means climbing in the early morning or late afternoon will keep you comfortably cool, especially in summer months. The view opens onto Big Thompson Canyon’s rugged embrace, its tree-dotted slopes watching over the crag.

While technically approachable, the route has a subtle crux that requires mental focus and precise footwork, making it well-suited to intermediate climbers building trad confidence. Its moderate 5.8 rating feels honest here without overstating the difficulty, though the wandering line and gear considerations add layers beyond pure physicality.

This climb rewards well-prepared climbers with a blend of straightforward movement and position-based challenges. Bring water, a helmet, and sturdy approach shoes to navigate the short but rocky trail that leads you to Combat Rock. Parking and access begin near Estes Park Valley, a gateway to the stunning Front Range and a hub for climbers seeking both quiet lines and more demanding climbs around Colorado’s granite veins.

Aiming for Battle of the Bulge? Best to avoid electric storms, as the exposed rock gives little shelter. Plan your descent via the shared anchor rappel or by downclimbing the approach path with caution over loose rock and uneven footing. Whether you’re tuning your crack skills or just seeking a solid, manageable single-pitch trad route with personality, this line stands as a rewarding option in Big Thompson Canyon’s climbing scene.