"Face Route on Duncan's Ridge is a single-pitch trad climb offering a balanced mix of moderate moves on smooth sandstone with subtle edges. It demands careful gear placement and offers both easier and more technical variations, making it ideal for trad climbers sharpening their skills near Fort Collins, Colorado."
Perched on the upper slopes of Duncan's Ridge, the Face Route invites climbers into an approachable yet thoughtfully engaging experience. This single-pitch climb stretches roughly 45 feet, beginning with a moderate 25-foot section of solid 5.5 rock that leads to a small ledge system—a natural pause before the terrain changes beneath your hands. The route then transitions into a smoother face, where subtle, hidden edges offer a delicate challenge as you move toward the summit. While the technical rating reads 5.8, the climb’s true character lies in reading the rock carefully as you navigate the softer moves on this upper face. Two bolts once marked the top but have since been removed, so establishing a trustworthy top-rope anchor requires medium hexes and tricams, making careful gear placement essential.
Located close to Horsetooth Reservoir near Fort Collins, Colorado, this climb offers wide-open views of rugged foothills and shifting blue skies. The rock itself, carved from local sandstone, carries the sun’s warmth by day and feels crisp and fresh in the early morning chill. The route’s face feels alive—it demands focus on delicate holds that seem to hesitate just beyond your reach, daring you to trust your feet and finesse your sequence. Choosing the right variation adds flavor: the easier path veers right, easing tension with larger holds, while the left side challenges with tighter, more technical moves that refine your edge control and balance.
Planning your ascent means gearing up with a standard traditional rack and bringing medium hexes and tricams to build a secure anchor where bolts no longer remain. A lightweight approach, comfortable climbing shoes that excel on smoothed sandstone, and a clear head for subtle sequences will make all the difference. Approaching the route requires a fair bit of attention—expect uneven terrain on the trail and variable footing that sets a steady pace. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light and shade, keeping the rock pleasantly cool and your grip reliable.
For climbers looking to sharpen trad skills or enjoy a crisp, straightforward climb away from crowded crags, Face Route holds quiet appeal. It's an honest line where gear savvy blends with a gentle but thoughtful challenge, all framed by the wide, open spirit of Colorado’s foothills.
With the removed bolts at the top, building a secure top-rope anchor depends entirely on reliable gear placements. Inspect all pro carefully, especially medium hexes and tricams, before trusting your anchor. Slippery patches on the upper face demand steady footwork, and uneven approach trails call for cautious footing to avoid injury.
Bring medium hexes and tricams for anchor building as bolts are no longer present.
Approach trail involves uneven terrain; sturdy footwear and steadiness help.
Best climbed during cooler times of day—early morning or late afternoon—for optimal rock temperature and grip.
Choose the right variation: easier moves to the right, more technical climbing to the left.
Two bolts at the top have been removed; climbers should rely on medium hexes and tricams to build a reliable top-rope anchor. Standard trad rack is recommended, with careful attention to placements just before the crux.
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