"A focused 70-foot sport climb with a challenging lower crux that smooths out on the way up. Girl Problems combines precise movement with exposed climbing in the scenic Poudre Canyon, delivering a gritty experience for 5.9 climbers."
Girl Problems presents a compelling single-pitch sport climb tucked within the rugged folds of Old Aid Wall, perched in the Upper Echelon Wall’s Triple Tier Area along Poudre Canyon near Fort Collins, Colorado. This route ignites immediately with a distinct crux low on the wall, demanding precise footwork and steady hands before yielding to steadily easier climbing as you near the top. The exposed rock here invites cautious movement, especially since the upper section reveals some loose fragments, underscoring the need for vigilance as you ascend. Though the protection consists of six strategically placed bolts culminating in a two-bolt anchor, climbers often find the anchor position less than ideal—an opportunity for savvy climbers to plan a smoother descent.
The granite face absorbs the afternoon sun, warming its surface and drawing out textured holds that feel alive beneath your fingertips. Around you, the Poudre River's persistent rush seems to dare climbers to push onward, while towering pines cast sporadic shadows that cool you during the climb’s more exposed stretches. This blend of natural dynamism adds a quiet urgency to the route, mixing serene wilderness with a calculated physical challenge.
Approach is straightforward: from the heart of Fort Collins, a short drive leads you through twisting canyon roads to a well-marked trailhead that guides you within a leisurely 15-minute hike to the base. The trail offers a gentle incline, scattered with pine needles and the warming scent of fresh mountain air, easing you both into the environment and the mindset essential for a focused climb.
While the 70-foot length may seem modest, Girl Problems delivers concentrated intensity paired with a crisp 5.9 rating that feels approachable yet engaging. It’s a route that beckons both emerging sport climbers eager to test their mettle and seasoned climbers seeking a quick but precise challenge. Preparation calls for reliable climbing shoes with solid edging capability to handle the crux, along with a helmet—considering the loose rock near the top. Timing your climb for mid-morning or late afternoon balances lighting and temperature, ensuring optimal grip and comfort.
The surrounding area, part of the Wolverine Mountain Ascent cluster, offers a blend of remoteness and accessibility that makes it a favored stop for climbers wanting to escape urban bustle without venturing into the deep backcountry. Expect wildlife encounters and vivid panoramic views at the summit—where the canyon stretches wide, keeping pace with the wandering currents below.
In essence, Girl Problems is a compact but compelling test of skills and nerve, framed by the elemental forces of wind, rock, and river. This route invites you to engage fully, delivering a climbing experience that is as much about connection with the landscape as it is about mastering the rock.
Loose rock near the upper section requires extra caution; wearing a helmet is strongly advised. Also, assess the integrity of the two-bolt anchor before lowering, as it lacks an optimal setup for retreat.
Approach from Fort Collins via a 15-minute moderate trail hike.
Wear shoes with strong edging for the crux section.
Avoid climbing directly after heavy rain; loose rock is more unstable.
Plan your climb for mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and optimize lighting.
Six bolts protect the pitch, ending in a two-bolt anchor. Bring a helmet due to some loose rock near the top. Consider lowering carefully as the anchor could be more accessible.
Estes Park
Estes Park
Estes Park
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