Duck A Day at Rifle Mountain Park offers straightforward sport climbing in a setting that melds rugged Colorado rock with the quiet pulse of the surrounding canyon. This 70-foot, single-pitch route begins on the familiar first three bolts of Doctor's Orders before veering left, where two additional bolts guard a traverse that leads to the top of Straight Man. Previously an older line marked by cold shuts and uncertain protection, this climb has been revived with fresh hardware and thorough cleaning, creating a reliable and approachable test piece for climbers stepping into the Rifle limestone.

The climb cuts across vertical rock face with a moderate 5.9 rating, tailored for those who enjoy solid movement without overwhelming complexity. Each bolt invites confidence, helping to steady your hands as you read the textured surface that tells a story of enduring wind and water erosion. The rock here holds a sharp, gritty feel underfoot and in your fingers, demanding attention but rewarding with quality grips and steady holds.

Rifle Mountain Park’s terrain embraces you with its dry, arid air and the subtle chatter of the Colorado River nearby. The route’s orientation provides a balance of sun and shade throughout the day, making spring and fall the ideal seasons to visit. Summer afternoons can heat the cliff face noticeably, so timing your ascent to avoid peak sun hours maximizes comfort and grip quality.

Access to Duck A Day is straightforward. A brief approach from the parking area leads you over well-maintained trails, with a 10-15 minute walk through rocky foothills and scrub brush. The path is clear but uneven in spots, so sturdy footwear and awareness of loose stone will keep the approach swift and safe. GPS coordinates 39.70651, -107.69446 pinpoint the route’s base, making navigation simple even for first-timers.

Protection on the route consists of 11 bolts plus a sturdy anchor, making the climb safe and accessible for sport climbers. The refurbished hardware ensures peace of mind, especially for those who may have overheard tales of the older, less reliable cold shuts. Bringing quickdraws that fit standard bolt spacing will prepare you to move efficiently. While the line is not sprawling, precision in gear clipping smooths the flow of climbing.

After topping out, the descent is practical—a walk-off scramble down Rifle’s characteristic scree slopes. Keep an eye on foot placement, as loose gravel can shift unexpectedly. Light hiking shoes or climbing approach shoes handle this terrain well.

For climbers with a thirst for an adventure that balances friendly technical challenges with clean, dependable rock, Duck A Day fits the bill. It invites exploration and defies monotony, all within the memorable landscape of Rifle Mountain Park’s limestone walls.