"Bucket Brigade at Storm Jumper Wall is a focused 5.9 sport climb near Independence Pass that offers steep, continuous climbing on secure holds. Perfect as a warm-up or for budding leaders, this route combines straightforward protection with mountain air and alpine views for a rewarding, accessible challenge."
Located high above the Ptarmigan Creek valley within the vivid wilderness of Independence Pass, Bucket Brigade offers climbers a focused burst of steep, technical sport climbing in a compact package. This route serves as an excellent primer for anyone easing into the 5.9 grade, delivering consistent, secure holds that invite confident moves without overwhelming complexity. The approach begins with a short scramble up to a projecting ledge, where the climb launches into its rhythmic sequence of powerful moves. Climbers first engage with the initial bolt pitch, a finger- and hand-friendly face that establishes the tempo for what lies ahead. Four bolts guide you upward on solid rock, each offering secure placements that let you concentrate on your technique rather than frantically searching for grip. About halfway up, the wall leans steeply, demanding precise footwork and steady core control as you maneuver toward a small alcove—a natural rest point to shake out and reset your focus. From here, the final few moves lead rightward, pushing determined climbers toward the anchor chains. The setting amplifies the experience, with clean mountain air and distant alpine views reminding you of the rugged, untamed beauty surrounding the route. Protection consists of four bolts and reliable chains at the anchors, streamlining the lead while encouraging focus on movement and flow. The area around Storm Jumper Wall is defined by its crisp, high-elevation environment, where the rock stays dry and texture-rich through much of the climbing season. Nearby Ptarmigan Creek murmurs below, a subtle reminder of the mountain’s ever-present energy. For those new to sport routes at this level, Bucket Brigade strikes a balance between accessibility and subtle challenge, making it a recommended warm-up or confidence-builder before tackling more complex lines nearby. Planning your climb here means dressing for variable mountain conditions, timing your ascent to avoid afternoon storms common in the summer, and carrying adequate layers alongside basic rack essentials. Footwear with solid edging and smearing capability will serve you well on the vertical face. Ultimately, this route combines straightforward logistics with just enough technical flair to engage climbers craving a hands-on taste of Colorado’s alpine sport climbing scene.
Be mindful of loose rock near the scramble approach and remain alert for sudden weather changes typical of high mountain environments. While the bolts are trustworthy, avoid rushing the moves above the fourth bolt where the exposure increases and stamina matters.
Scramble up from Ptarmigan Creek vigilantly; footing can be loose before the ledge.
Climb early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in this alpine zone during summer.
Bring layers—the mountain air chills quickly even in summer, especially at the anchors.
Sharp edging shoes improve footing on the steep, textured face.
Four bolts protect the route with chains at the anchor; no additional gear needed. Ideal for sport climbers carrying a standard quickdraw rack.
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