"Cherry delivers a straightforward yet satisfying trad climb on Turtle Rocks’ durable granite. Featuring a 5.5-5.6 chimney start and a finger crack finish, this brief route offers a hands-on challenge for intermediate trad climbers seeking technical movement in a stunning Colorado setting."
Cherry offers a concise but rewarding trad climbing experience set against the rugged backdrop of Turtle Rocks near Buena Vista, Colorado. This single-pitch route, roughly 40 feet in length, begins with a straightforward chimney that leans between 5.5 and 5.6 difficulty, perfect for climbers looking to warm up or test their technique in natural features. The chimney frames the ascent like a narrow corridor, inviting you to engage your body and senses as you move upward. Beyond the chimney lies a chockstone—anchoring the climb’s character and demanding careful negotiation before shifting your path rightward onto a clean crack. This final section challenges you with sustained moves requiring finger-sized cams, making it a hands-on route where gear placement and body positioning are critical. The climb concludes at a two-bolt anchor, a vestige of its old bolted history, although those bolts were removed in 2014, restoring the route to pure trad climbing.
Approaching Cherry is a straightforward affair, following well-marked paths through Turtle Rocks’ distinctive granite outcrops. The area’s elevation, just shy of 7,200 feet, gifts climbers with fresh mountain air and expansive views of the Colorado Rockies. The rock itself is solid, though the absence of bolts means placing protection efficiently is essential—finger-sized cams come into their own here. Keep in mind the chimney section offers some rest and stability before the sharper moves at the top, making it an accessible yet engaging climb for intermediate climbers.
Seasonally, spring through fall presents the best window, when conditions are dry and temperatures moderate. Avoid wet or snowy days, as the chimney can become slippery and protection more challenging to place. The approach trail is a dry, rocky scramble that rewards early starts, allowing climbers to beat afternoon heat and potential afternoon thunderstorms common in this region.
Whether you're visiting Turtle Rocks for a day of climbing or passing through Buena Vista, Cherry provides a satisfying trad experience that balances natural movement with practical gear strategy. Suitable for those stepping from sport to trad or seasoned climbers seeking a quick, technical pitch, it’s a route that demands attention without overwhelming complexity. Pack a rack focused on finger to hand-sized cams, sturdy shoes with solid edging ability, and plenty of water—this climb will both sharpen your skills and offer a crisp taste of Colorado’s climbing scene.
With bolts removed, protection depends entirely on natural placements—pay close attention to secure gear placement especially above the chimney past the chockstone. Approach conditions can be slick after rain, so ensure dry weather to maintain safe footing on the chimney.
Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in summer.
Use sticky-soled climbing shoes with good edging for the crack section.
Bring a finger to hand-sized cam rack; small cams are crucial for the top moves.
Check weather forecasts—wet granite can make chimney moves slippery and hazardous.
Single rack with emphasis on finger-sized cams toward the upper crack section. Bolts were removed in 2014, so traditional protection placement is necessary throughout.
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