Standing at the base of the Corinthian Column, the rock face looms with a rugged invitation that calls out to climbers who crave thoughtful protection and varied movement on solid granite. This five-pitch route slices through Lumpy Ridge’s Bookend formation, just left of the Foxhead, weaving a path through multiple chimney systems that challenge your technique and strategic gear placements. Beginning between the third and fourth chimneys from the left, the climb immediately demands attention. The first pitch offers two distinct flared cracks to engage with — choosing the left-hand crack means committing to powerful hand jams and smart placement of stoppers near the top where protection narrows. Moving left around the end of this crack leads to a large chimney, which beckons with secure belay options and good hand and fist jam opportunities. This opening pitch, rated at 5.9 over 120 feet, sets the tone for a route where clean, traditional climbing is rewarded by steady progress and smooth transitions.

The second pitch continues up a chimney and crack system that looks intimidating from below but opens up into surprisingly manageable terrain. The chimney requires a balance of body positioning and gear placements, with a large ledge at its top offering a spacious and comfortable belay stance. Here, the openness of the rock invites you to take a breath and reset for the next move.

On the third pitch, the line takes a left-leaning variation into the Pinch chimney rather than the more straightforward crack on the right wall. This decision adds an element of playful exploration and increases engagement through more hands-on chimney climbing. Though rated slightly easier at 5.8, the pitch extends about 140 feet and requires saving a handful of larger cams for a secure belay on an exposed ledge. The variety of grips and jams here keeps both mental and physical focus sharp, as the route’s character subtly shifts.

Pitch four presents a short traverse to the right along an ample ledge before reaching a delicate hand crack that tapers off after the initial few feet. Once on the crack, the angle eases significantly, offering a relief from steeper climbing while still maintaining steady upward momentum. This section reconnects you to the main route and leads toward the final push.

The last pitch involves a tricky walk across a sloping ledge before ascending roughly 150 feet of low-angle fifth-class rock. While not particularly technical, this section demands route-finding skills and careful footwork to navigate the final stretch to the top. The reward for negotiation of this last section is grand views over Estes Park Valley and the surrounding Rawah Wilderness, a fitting conclusion to a route defined by thoughtful moves and classic granite features.

Gear up with a full traditional rack including cams and stoppers to a #4 Camalot, and don’t forget a few large pieces for belay security — these protective details are key to staying safe and comfortable on the longer chimneys and belay ledges. The approach is manageable, and the climbing provides an ideal balance of exposure and protection, perfect for trad climbers looking for a multi-pitch experience that combines solid technique with adventurous route-finding in a renowned Colorado climbing area.