HomeClimbingCloister Frock

Cloister Frock: A Focused 5.9 Sport Climb in Big Thompson Canyon

Estes Park, Colorado United States
sport climb
single pitch
crux
granite
technical footwork
Big Thompson Canyon
Estes Park
Length: 90 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Cloister Frock
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Cloister Frock is a compact yet compelling 5.9 sport route carved into Big Thompson Canyon’s granite. It demands a precise effort through a key crux and offers flexible finish options, making it an excellent pick for climbers honing their technique near Estes Park."

Cloister Frock: A Focused 5.9 Sport Climb in Big Thompson Canyon

Cloister Frock stands as a concise yet engaging sport climb tucked into the rugged contours of Big Thompson Canyon near Estes Park Valley, Colorado. This 90-foot single-pitch route offers a direct challenge along a smooth formation, beginning just a half-rope’s length left of the popular Going to the Chapel. From your starting point, you ascend with steady precision to the second bolt nestled in a broad scoop—this is the heart of the climb where the 5.9 crux demands a sharp combination of body positioning and finger strength. Beyond the crux, the wall slowly eases, guiding you past four additional bolts on rock that’s been polished by climbers and nature alike.

The rock itself feels solid underfoot and hand, boasting a clean face with subtle edges that call for careful footwork and controlled breathing. Above the last fixed protection, the route offers two options: veer diagonally up and right to clip the seventh bolt on Going to the Chapel, continuing that line’s finish, or traverse farther right toward the anchor of Simplexity, another well-known climb in this clustered area.

Access to Cloister Frock is straightforward, as it shares the same approach to Outer Gates and The Monastery, tucked inside the Estes Park Valley. Expect a short walk over firm terrain with scattered shrubs and granite slabs guiding the way. This area’s sun exposure welcomes early morning ascents when the wall begins to warm, offering comfortable grip conditions without overheating. A single 60-meter rope suffices for climbing and rappelling, but be mindful that rappelling directly from the Going to the Chapel anchor requires a short double-rope maneuver to reach the ground safely.

Whether you’re ticking off solid 5.9 climbs in Colorado or seeking a compact project with good flow and straightforward protection, Cloister Frock combines technical moves with efficient clipping. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to sharpen their sport climbing skills amid the striking geology of Big Thompson Canyon, with the bonus of close proximity to more routes for extended session options. As with all climbs in the area, packing enough water, checking weather forecasts, and keeping hands chalked will immensely improve both your grip and enjoyment on the wall.

Climber Safety

Rappelling directly from the Going to the Chapel anchor is not possible with a single rope, requiring a short downwards double rope rappel to reach the ground. Ensure your rope length and rappel knowledge match this setup to avoid risky situations.

Route Details

TypeSport
Pitches1
Length90 feet

Local Tips

Start climbs early in the day to avoid the afternoon sun warming the rock excessively.

Bring extra chalk to maintain steady grip through the polished crux section.

If rappelling from Going to the Chapel anchor, prepare to do a double rope rap to reach the ground safely.

Combine Cloister Frock with neighboring routes like Going to the Chapel or Simplexity for a fuller climbing day.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:Rated 5.9, Cloister Frock carries a sharp but accessible crux early in the climb that tests finger strength and movement precision. This grade feels true-to-form without softening or stiffening, making it a reliable yardstick for intermediate sport climbers familiar with Colorado granite. Its straightforward line and steady bolt spacing allow for breathing room after the crux compared to more sustained local classics.

Gear Requirements

Bring 7-9 quickdraws depending on your intended finish; a single 60-meter rope works well for climbing and rappelling via the Simplexity anchor.

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Tags

sport climb
single pitch
crux
granite
technical footwork
Big Thompson Canyon
Estes Park