"Good and Plenty is a solid 5.8 PG13 trad climb along the sandstone corners of The Alligator Lounge. Sharing its start with Daddy, it offers a crisp single pitch that tests steady footwork and traditional protection skills amid Rocky Mountain terrain."
Good and Plenty offers climbers a straightforward yet rewarding taste of trad climbing along the rugged sandstone faces of The Alligator Lounge, located within the Thunder Ridge sector of West Creek in the South Platte area of Colorado. The route shares its beginning with the popular Daddy climb, leading you into a featured corner that demands focus and steady movement. At roughly 80 feet, this single-pitch climb provides a moderate challenge rated 5.8 PG13, appealing to intermediate climbers eager to refine their trad skills without venturing into extreme difficulty.
The approach to the climb is an uncomplicated jaunt through a dry pine forest, where the crunch of loose needles underfoot accompanies the fresh mountain air. Once at the base, the climb’s character emerges immediately—the crack and corner invite a tactile connection with the rock’s grain and texture. The sandstone surface feels worn and solid, offering reliable protection placements throughout. Climbers should carry a standard rack, as the protection here suits conventional cams and nuts, with no unusual gear demands.
Be alert as you reach the midpoint: wasps are known to hover in this section during warmer months, adding a slight element of tension that calls for awareness but never detracts from the overall flow. The climb rewards with keen movement in the corner, encouraging careful footwork and deliberate body positioning that build confidence in traditional climbing techniques.
Beyond the physical leap, Good and Plenty places you in a setting that amplifies the adventure without overwhelming complexity. The route’s location within the greater Thunder Ridge area grants sweeping views toward South Platte’s rugged contours, hinting at the bigger wilderness beyond. The sense of quiet detachment from busy corridors makes this a prime spot for those seeking undisturbed time on the rock.
This route is ideal for days when you want a solid, accessible trad challenge—a balance between technical climbing and the freedom of wide-open terrain. Timing your climb for early morning or late afternoon when shaded by the terrain helps keep the rock cool underfoot, particularly in summer’s heat. Adequate hydration and sturdy footwear remain essential; the approach trails can be loose and rocky, demanding steady footing to prevent slips on the way in and out.
Respect the environment and fellow climbers by packing out everything you bring in, and stay patient if the wasps are buzzing. Good and Plenty is a dependable test piece that blends the excitement of trad climbing with a manageable 5.8 rating, presenting an invitation to sharpen skills and soak in the rugged beauty of Colorado’s White River National Forest region.
Exercise caution around the mid-pitch where wasps frequently appear, especially in warm conditions. The approach trail can be loose and uneven, so watch your footing. Standard trad protection is sufficient, but ensure solid placements to avoid runouts.
Start early to avoid afternoon heat and keep the rock cool.
Watch for wasps around mid-height during warmer months.
Wear sturdy shoes for the loose approach trail.
Carry plenty of water as there are no water sources nearby.
Bring a standard trad rack covering small to medium cams and nuts to protect the corner and crack features securely. No fixed gear present; placements are reliable but require familiarity with traditional gear.
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