Enola Gay offers a focused and rewarding trad climbing experience set within the rugged embrace of Shelf Road near Canon City, Colorado. This single-pitch route is a straightforward yet engaging introduction to traditional crack climbing, boasting a pronounced crack and flake system that steadily guides you upward to the rim. The rock here wears the marks of time—solid, textured sandstone with enough features to challenge your footwork and gear placements without overwhelming complexity. Expect a climb around 5.8 in difficulty, where technique and steady movement trump brute force.

The approach to Enola Gay situates you in a less crowded corner of The Vault, just east of the popular climbs Holiday in Cambodia and T.B., about a 200-yard walk along exposed sandstone ledges. The approach trail is unmarked but clear enough for those accustomed to canyoneering in the region—expect some loose scree to negotiate on your way in.

Gear up with a traditional rack tailored for crack protection; no fixed anchors exist, so a solid set of cams and nuts will serve you well. Protection is straightforward, but placing your gear confidently in the flake system will be key to maintaining safety and fluid movement. The rock’s reliability rewards mindful placements, though vigilance is advised as some flakes can feel marginal under weight.

Under the bright Colorado sun, the wall tends to warm comfortably during midday climbs, making spring and fall the best seasons to visit. Summer’s heat can bake the sandstone, while winter climbs risk icy patches near the approach. Once atop the rim, panoramic views reward your efforts with sweeping glimpses of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding red rock landscape.

Descent requires a careful downclimb or a controlled rappel off traditional anchors you place on the way up. Downclimbing demands good route memory and solid footwork; anchors should be set conservatively to ensure a safe retreat. With two votes corroborating its moderate challenge, Enola Gay stands as an ideal route for climbers stepping confidently into classic trad terrain or those seeking a rapid yet satisfying climb in Shelf Road's extensive portfolio.

Local climbers appreciate Enola Gay for its accessibility and well-proportioned difficulty, making it a steady option before tackling more complicated nearby routes. The Vault remains a quieter pocket within the Shelf Road climbing area, preserving a raw, natural feel where the sandstone seems almost alive, daring you to test your skills against its grains and cracks. With practical preparation and a clear head, this climb becomes a thorough and invigorating notch in your trad climbing logbook.