"Easy Street is a short, single-pitch trad climb tucked in the fractured cliffs of Independence Pass. With a mix of bolts and a solid crack system, it provides a perfect spot to sharpen trad techniques while soaking in open mountain views."
Easy Street offers a refreshing introduction to traditional climbing within the rugged expanse of Independence Pass, Colorado. Positioned on the fractured cliff band that separates Jungle Wall from Hurricane Wall, this route is the rightmost of three new lines carving their way into weathered rock just left of the popular Monkey Dance route. The climb stretches 35 feet over a single pitch, presenting climbers with a distinct blend of bolt protection and natural gear placements that demand thoughtful strategy and confidence in gear selection.
From the base, the crag’s broken contours invite exploration, with rough granite surfaces sculpted by years of weather and wind. The approach unfolds beneath towering pines, their needles crunching softly underfoot, and the sharp mountain air carries the distant murmur of the Ptarmigan Creek. As you ascend, the wall shifts from a sparse bolt ladder to a solid crack that drinks in the pro—small to medium cams and stoppers fit cleanly into the bomber crack that dominates the upper section.
This climb challenges with its spacing—the initial two bolts are set wide apart, urging climbers to trust their traditional protection skills without reliance on quickdraws alone. The crack offers secure placements but requires attention to gear sizing and placement angle, making it an ideal training ground for those sharpening trad instincts. The anchor at the top is solid, allowing for a straightforward top-rope setup or a clean rappel.
Easy Street gives back more than it asks, with expansive views opening out towards the alpine ridges of Independence Pass as you reach the anchors. A subtle breeze often sweeps through, cooling the exerted climber and carrying the scent of pine and fresh mountain air. The rock’s texture rewards tactile communication, demanding precise footwork and hand jams that feel natural rather than forced.
For those visiting this sector, timing is key—a morning climb avoids the afternoon sun that bakes the southern exposures, while summer brings long daylight hours perfect for extended sessions along the walls nearby. The short approach is manageable but carries a hint of wilderness, with uneven ground and loose rock near the base asking for steady footing and alertness.
Whether you're honing your gear placements or seeking a straightforward route with plenty of character, Easy Street makes an excellent choice. It’s a quiet corner of the Ptarmigan Creek area that offers both reliable protection and access to the wild beauty of Colorado’s high mountain climbing landscape.
Be mindful of the long gap between the first two bolts—fall potential increases without trustworthy gear placements. Loose rock near the approach demands careful footing. Carry a helmet and double-check anchor integrity before abseil.
Approach early in the day to enjoy cooler rock and avoid afternoon sun exposure.
Ensure your gear selection includes a variety of small to medium cams and stoppers.
Watch for loose rock near the base during the approach; solid shoes are a must.
Top-rope or rappel from the established anchor—double-check your setup before descending.
The route features three bolts spaced with some distance between the first and second, requiring careful gear placements in the solid crack above. Bring a rack with small to medium stoppers and cams for secure protection. The anchor is fixed and reliable.
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