Bird Shit Avenue offers a straightforward yet engaging climb that immediately challenges you with a finger crack tucked under a low overhang. Located on Duncan's Ridge near Horsetooth Reservoir, this single-pitch route blends technical crack climbing with a brief traverse around a sharp arete, inviting climbers to test precision and steady footwork on solid Colorado sandstone. The initial move requires threading fingers into the crack beneath roughly a 10-foot roof—an unmistakable crux that demands both endurance and focus. As you maneuver through the overhang, the climb presents a choice: head left for a gentler 5.8 variation or commit right to the full 5.9 challenge, each demanding clean movement and careful gear placement.

The crack continues upward for another ten feet, broadening slightly before splitting. This fork allows climbers to tailor their ascent according to skill and confidence, making it approachable for those honing crack technique, yet offering a subtle push for seasoned trad climbers. While the route is short, at about 40 feet, it holds a punchy amount of technical that rewards precision and mental control.

Gear placements abound throughout the line, with sizes ranging from small stoppers and medium cams to larger friends, ensuring a well-protected climb for those carrying a versatile rack. The rock quality is reassuringly solid, and the natural features invite creative placements, though mastering the sequence through the finger crack over the bulge is key to a clean send.

Beyond the climbing, Duncan's Ridge situates you in a landscape where gentle pine stands bathe the approach trail in shifting light and Horsetooth Reservoir shimmers nearby, reminding you of the quieter side of outdoor adventure. The approach to Bird Shit Avenue is brief but uneven, winding through forested steps and rocky patches that prime your mind for the technical focus ahead.

For climbers seeking a concise route within the Fort Collins climbing scene, Bird Shit Avenue stands out as a reliable test piece that refines finger crack competence while offering a bit of adrenaline via its roof maneuver. Whether you’re stepping up from easier cracks or solidifying a solid 5.9 trad tick, this route packs value into a single pitch. Treat the landing with caution and prepare for a straightforward descent off the top.

Plan your ascent with attention to protection size variety and steady footing. Daylight climbs benefit from morning sun to warm the rock without overheating, with late spring through early fall being the most comfortable window for dry conditions. Hydrate before stepping onto the route and wear sturdy climbing shoes that excel in crack smearing to maximize your grip. Bird Shit Avenue rewards patience and focus, inviting climbers to embrace the tactile dialogue between hand, foot, and stone in a classic Colorado setting.