Front of the Pinnacle stands as a compelling ascent in Bon Echo’s South Bouldering and Rock area, offering climbers a straightforward but thrilling trad experience that stretches over 300 feet and unfolds across three pitches. The route’s defining moment comes on the second pitch, where a bold, exposed step from the pinnacle challenges your nerves while rewarding you with sweeping views that sharpen every sense. The rock holds a firm personality here, granting confidence with solid edges and cracks but demanding respect for its exposure and technical demands.

Approaching the climb, you traverse a forested corridor where the rustle of leaves and distant birdcalls set a calm yet anticipatory atmosphere. This contrast heightens the thrill of reaching the stark vertical face, where the air feels cooler and the views open wide. The first pitch meanders through moderate cracks and edges, warming up climbers with hands-on rock and careful footwork. It's a measured approach that prepares you for the iconic second pitch’s heart-racing move. This crux, a deliberate step from the pinnacle, tests balance and boldness, making it as memorable as it is rewarding.

The final pitch maintains this momentum with moderately sustained climbing that keeps you engaged but never overwhelmed. Protection is straightforward yet essential: a small rack of cams and nuts coupled with long slings to safely navigate tricky placements and manage rope drag on longer pitches. Effort here is well met by the steady rock and the steady rhythm of secure placements.

Bon Echo’s south-facing walls catch the morning sun, making early starts ideal, especially in warmer months when the heat settles into the trees below. Late afternoon shade on the rock provides relief and a soft glow that makes finishes all the more satisfying. The location’s accessibility makes it a favorite for those wanting quality climbing without a long approach, though respect for the natural setting remains crucial. Always watch for loose rock near ledges, especially after wet weather, and ensure communication with your climbing partner as exposure here can disorient.

For those seeking a moderate trad route that rewards boldness and steadies the spirit, Front of the Pinnacle combines approachable climbing with moments of adrenaline-fueled delight. It offers a distinct blend of character and calm, where the rock dares you forward and the horizon pulls at your glance.