Camouflage offers a quietly challenging trad climb perched on the rugged granite of Combat Rock, deep in the Big Thompson Canyon near Estes Park Valley, Colorado. From the first move, this route demands attention; it initially appears straightforward, launching up a left-angled discontinuous crack just steps to the left of the well-known G.I. Joe climb. However, the route lives up to its name—the holds and protection points are intricately hidden, requiring a steady eye and precise gear placements through thin wire cams in a section that tests your focus early on. As the climb unfolds, the initial stealth gives way to more obvious hand cracks that wind their way through a series of bulges and a small roof, steadily increasing the physical and mental engagement.

Larger cams become your allies past the crux, allowing the lead climber to confidently run the pitch with a 60-meter rope to an excellent belay spot secured by a substantial tree. The final stretch climbs a striking wide crack that reveals a concealed inner hand crack offering superb holds—an unexpected reward after the demanding start. The granite’s texture is rough and reassuring, amplifying grip confidence while the surrounding cliffs reflect the quiet solitude of the canyon.

This climb is a thoughtful puzzle rather than a fast sprint. It tests route-finding skills and gear knowledge as much as raw strength, rewarding climbers who stay patient and deliberate. The sustained thin pro and small roofs demand steady nerves; while the overall technical grade is 5.9 with an "R" rating for runout sections, the climbing feels more intense when considering the protection challenges. Camouflage is an excellent choice for climbers comfortable with traditional gear placement and an appetite for a mental and physical crux.

Before setting out, gear up with a mix of micro-cams and small wires for initial protection, and make sure your rack includes doubles in mid to larger cam sizes to tackle the hand crack and roofs safely. Timing your climb in the morning is ideal, as the east-facing wall catches the early sun but stays cool enough under the shade of the surrounding pines. The approach follows a well-maintained but rugged trail through Big Thompson Canyon, taking approximately 30 minutes from the nearest trailhead, with GPS coordinates pointing you directly to the base.

Once you top out, belay from the large tree anchored securely on the ledge, and prepare for a careful descent via downclimb or controlled rappel. The area carries an aura of quiet wilderness, tucked away from the bustling Estes Park, offering an authentic Colorado trad climbing experience. Whether you’re pushing your comfort zone on gear placements or hunting a thoughtful, technical crack system, Camouflage delivers. It’s not just a climb—it’s a test of awareness where each move and placement reveals the rock’s subtle complexity.