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Gobble Up at Turkey Perch: A Classic Hand Crack Adventure

Denver, Colorado United States
hand crack
fist crack
trad
single pitch
Turkey Rocks
South Platte
Colorado climbing
Length: ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Gobble Up
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Gobble Up is a solid 5.8 trad climb on Turkey Perch’s hand and fist crack, known for sustained jamming and generous protection. It offers a memorable, steady pitch set against the scenic backdrop of Colorado’s South Platte region."

Gobble Up at Turkey Perch: A Classic Hand Crack Adventure

Gobble Up is a standout tradition-style route etched into the rugged contours of Turkey Perch, set within the sprawling South Platte climbing hub in Colorado. This single-pitch climb demands both patience and rhythm, welcoming climbers into a sustained hand and fist crack that flows steadily upward between the neighboring lines of Ragger Bagger and Steppenwolf. The granite here is firm but textured, inviting confident jamming that turns each move into a tactile dialogue between climber and stone.

From the base, the crack offers an engaging sequence of jams that rarely allows for rest, testing grip endurance while rewarding persistence. The natural protection opportunities are generous along the crack’s length, allowing a steady stream of placements with Camalots ranging from #1 to #3.5 sizes. This gear versatility eases mental load, making it accessible yet satisfying for intermediate trad climbers looking to refine crack technique or simply enjoy a solid pitch in Colorado's famed Turkey Rocks area.

Turkey Perch itself is perched along the South Platte River corridor, where the surrounding pine forest frames the rock with fresh mountain air and the distant hum of water weaving through the terrain. The setting gifts climbers a quiet escape punctuated by the crisp scent of resinous trees and the occasional call of hawks circling above. Early morning climbs here benefit from soft, indirect sunlight, avoiding the harsher afternoon heat and offering pleasant conditions, especially during spring and fall transitions.

For anyone planning to lead Gobble Up, prepare for a moderate approach that weaves through sandy trails peppered with pine needles and rocky steps, typically a brief 10 to 15-minute walk from the main access point near Turkey Rocks. Footwear with solid grip is essential, as the trail can hold loose gravel in sections. Hydration in this semi-arid zone is critical—carry at least two liters of water and start early to avoid the midday sun.

The route’s 5.8 rating is straightforward but feels firmly earned through unrelenting jamming and sustained movement rather than cruxy boulders. This line sits comfortably alongside Steppenwolf in appeal, beloved by locals for its reliability and steady pro opportunities. While not physically overwhelming, Gobble Up challenges climbers to maintain body tension and patience, a true test of trad finesse rather than brute force.

Safety-wise, the crack’s consistent width allows for stable gear placements, yet it’s important to be mindful of the occasional loose flakes or small rock chips near the top section, which have weathered over time. Helmets are recommended, and partners should communicate clearly when setting gear or moving through the route’s crux zones. Descending involves a straightforward walk-off along established trails, but the terrain can become slippery after wet conditions, so caution is advised.

In summary, Gobble Up offers a compelling blend of steady crack climbing framed by the peaceful wilderness of Turkey Perch. It’s a reliable classic for anyone ready to engage with Colorado’s granite in a hands-on way — fitting for those eager to sharpen crack skills or simply savor a clean, enjoyable pitch under open skies.

Climber Safety

Though the crack provides excellent protection, watch for small loose flakes near the top. A helmet is advised, and partners should communicate clearly on placements to mitigate rockfall risk. The approach trail can become slick when wet—use caution descending in damp conditions.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon heat and enjoy softer morning light on the route.

Bring plenty of water—this area is dry with limited shade on approach trails.

Wear shoes with sticky rubber for secure footing on loose gravel trail sections.

Helmet recommended due to occasional small rockfall near the upper crack.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:The 5.8 grade fits well with the steady, sustained hand and fist jams that demand continuous movement. It’s an approachable yet rewarding test of crack climbing skill, avoiding intense cruxes but requiring consistent technique throughout. Compared to nearby Steppenwolf, Gobble Up feels a bit more sustained and less sporadically challenging.

Gear Requirements

Protection relies on a full rack of Camalots from sizes #1 to #3.5, with extras in hand to fist sizes beneficial. The crack accepts solid placements throughout, including larger pieces near the top.

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Tags

hand crack
fist crack
trad
single pitch
Turkey Rocks
South Platte
Colorado climbing