Adventure Collective

Burgers at Parachute Rock: A Classic Trad Climb in Colorado’s Rampart Range

Denver, Colorado United States
crack climb
bolt protection
single pitch
face variation
Colorado trad
sunny aspect
Length: 100 ft
Type: Trad, TR
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Burgers
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Burgers is a solid 100-foot trad climb on Parachute Rock, blending crack and face climbing with smart gear placements. Ideal for those stepping into Colorado’s Rampart Range, it challenges with a key bolt-protected crux and accessible anchor setup."

Burgers at Parachute Rock: A Classic Trad Climb in Colorado’s Rampart Range

Burgers presents a straightforward yet engaging climb on the rugged faces of Parachute Rock, sitting quietly above the South Platte River corridor. This single-pitch, 100-foot route unfolds along a left-leaning crack that demands steady hands and a keen eye for subtle holds. The stable rock texture feels solid beneath your fingertips as you ascend, offering a reliable grip amid the surrounding forest’s whispering breeze. As the crack thins, you reach a bolt that guards your next move — here, the route diverges. Climbers can press directly upward, maintaining a line that challenges balance and mental focus, or veer slightly left toward a second bolt placed on the face to test face climbing skills.

This climb suits trad enthusiasts ready to place a modest rack of gear—cams up to a BD Camalot #2 are sufficient—paired with draws for the bolts. The protection strikes a thoughtful balance: not overly runout but requiring attentive placements that complement the bolts’ security. A two-bolt anchor with classic hangers awaits at the top near a small tree, providing a solid station to clean your gear or set up a rappel.

Approaching Burgers means venturing along Rampart Range Road, where the surrounding pine and aspen groves introduce the climb with cool shade and the occasional call of birds breaking the silence. The trail to the base is well-trodden yet demands careful footing over uneven, rocky terrain, so solid approach shoes and cautious pacing are advised. Plan for late spring through early fall to catch the best weather; the climb’s southwest-facing aspect allows for morning sun that gradually warms the wall without baking it in afternoon heat.

With a moderate 5.8 PG13 rating, Burgers serves as an accessible gateway for trad climbers seeking a solid multipitch experience without committing to an extended adventure. Its challenges come less from sheer difficulty and more from the requirement to balance protection strategy with movement precision. Those familiar with other Rampart Range classics will recognize the familiar rock quality and flow but will appreciate the subtle cruxes and route-finding choices unique to this line.

Local climbers advise starting early to avoid the late afternoon shadows that can cool the rock abruptly and to bring water along the approach to stay hydrated in Colorado’s dry air. Bolts are well maintained, but gear placements remain crucial, especially on the upper section’s face variation. After topping out, the descent involves a straightforward walk-off to the trail, though slippery leaves and loose scree can catch those unfamiliar with the terrain.

Whether it's your first venture into the Rampart Range or a welcomed return, Burgers delivers a focused climb with practical gear challenges and environmental charm. It invites climbers to move with intention, test their anchor-building skills, and take in the high-country energy where forest meets stone.

Climber Safety

The two-bolt anchor uses classic hangers without chains—communicate clearly with your partner to ensure safe and secure top-rope setups. Watch for loose rock near the top tree and take care on the descent trail, particularly when damp or covered with leaf litter.

Route Details

TypeTrad, TR
Pitches1
Length100 feet

Local Tips

Start early to catch morning warmth and avoid afternoon cool-downs on the rock.

Wear sturdy approach shoes; the trail has rocky, uneven patches.

Hydrate well before and during the climb—Colorado's dry mountain air can dehydrate quickly.

Double-check placements on the upper face variation; bolts are solid, but pro is essential.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8 PG13
Quality
Consensus:At 5.8 PG13, this climb offers moderate technical demands that feel true to the grade with an exposed crux near the first bolt adding a touch of mental challenge. The line isn’t overly stiff but requires attention to gear and movement, especially on the bolt-protected face variation that bumps the difficulty subtly above easy 5.8s in the region.

Gear Requirements

Bring a rack of cams to BD Camalot #2, a couple of quickdraws for bolt protection, and gear to build anchor at the top. The anchors are two bolts with standard hangers located just left of a small tree.

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Tags

crack climb
bolt protection
single pitch
face variation
Colorado trad
sunny aspect