Situated within the rugged contours of Chipette Rock near Junction Creek in Durango, Colorado, the Girls on Stage route offers an intense, technical trad experience that rewards climbers with a focused test of skill over 40 feet of terrain. This single-pitch climb demands precision, starting with a delicate balance on sloping holds and prominent horizontal edges that force you to shift left and upward with careful control. The rock here challenges your technique—its texture rough and inviting, yet demanding attention to footwork and body position. Midway, the route asks for a bold mantel move that pushes climbers right; it’s a powerful transition that separates the confident from the cautious, as it lacks fixed protection and relies on a well-placed bolt to ease the passage. Above, the wall holds steady, inviting a steady ascent to the anchors.

Chipette Rock itself is a quiet outcrop buffered by the thick forestry that lines Junction Creek, offering climbers a private encounter with Colorado’s high-desert vibe fused with shaded, pine-scented air. Approaching the route involves a brief walk through uneven terrain, alerting you to loose stones and a need for steady footing. Despite its brief length, Girls on Stage has a deceptive intensity—its 5.9X rating warns of the protection challenges, especially around the mantel, requiring experienced placements and a calm mindset.

Gear recommendations urge bringing a solid rack emphasizing smaller cams and nuts for tricky placements, along with a sturdy quickdraw or two for the bolt near the mantel. Since the climb is exposed to sun in the afternoon, earlier ascents are wise to avoid overheating and sweaty holds. Local wisdom suggests approaching with well-fitted climbing shoes that handle slabby edges and smears confidently, plus hydration given Durango's dry air.

While the landing is straightforward, descending back involves a cautious walk off with attention to uneven ground and potential loose rock. Climbers seeking a balanced trad challenge with precise moves and a real-world protection puzzle will find Girls on Stage an engaging test, set against the quiet beauty of Colorado’s cutting-edge outdoor scene.