Perched on the rugged south face of Surprising Crag, the route known as Choss Temple Pilots offers climbers a straightforward yet engaging introduction to Boulder Canyon’s Sport Park. This single-pitch 5.8 sport climb instantly presents a blend of loose rock and technical sections, demanding attention right from the first moves. Approaching the climb, you’ll spot an unmistakable chimney formation. From there, count three bolt lines to the left, just shy of the arete — that’s where your ascent begins.

The first two bolts require careful movement, as the rock beneath your hands occasionally shifts, reminding you that the crag is alive and ever-changing. After passing these initial anchors, the path leads into a narrow, right-leaning dihedral. This section asks for steady footwork and a keen eye to find the most stable holds as you push straight upward.

Though rated 5.8, the climb carries an honest character — it’s not just a casual warm-up but a genuine test of your ability to read the rock and manage your balance on less-than-perfect features. The ascent is compact but punchy, embodying the rugged spirit of Boulder’s climbing scene without excessive complexity.

The route is protected by six well-placed bolts, crowned by a two-bolt anchor that makes top-rope setups or rappelling straightforward. Climbing here means balancing ambition with prudence; the loose sections suggest that helmets are a must, and clipping smoothly to avoid unnecessary swing is key.

The surrounding environment enhances the experience. The sun-bleached rock warms underfoot, while occasional breezes carry the distant hum of Boulder’s bustling outskirts, grounding you between wild landscapes and urban access. Whether you’re using this as a stepping stone into Boulder’s sport climbs or a quick sharp crux to stretch your skills, Choss Temple Pilots offers a compact, gritty embrace of Colorado’s climbing ethos.

Plan your visit to allow plenty of daylight for approach and descent. Stable shoes with solid edging ability will best serve the scuffed holds and variable footing. Carry enough water—even on shorter routes—to stay focused and refreshed amid the dry air. This climb fits well into a day of exploring the Sport Park’s accessible faces but deserves respect for its occasionally unreliable rock sections.

In short, Choss Temple Pilots blends approachable difficulty with an honest character. Its mix of loose rock and classic sport bolts forge a climb that demands respect and rewards focus, making it a memorable introduction to Boulder Canyon’s climbing arena.