"Gravestone offers a brief but textured sport climb on The Catacomb’s west side, weaving through crystal edges and knob holds over a four-bolt line. Ideal for climbers seeking a sharp, targeted challenge within Big Thompson Canyon’s rugged landscape."
Gravestone carves a neat, accessible line on the west flank of The Catacomb, offering climbers a concise yet varied encounter with the Sepulcher Formation’s rugged character. This route demands attention not because of its length but its distinctive moves—four bolts guide the way up a mix of crystal edges and knob grabs reminiscent of the Needles, creating a tactile playground for hands and feet. You’ll start your ascent behind a striking flake that juts out like a solitary marker, immediately immersing you in the area’s raw geology. The initial climbing traces easy ledges, allowing your rhythm to build before transitioning into steeper terrain where precision and balance take the spotlight.
Situated roughly halfway down the trail descending The Catacomb, Gravestone rewards climbers with a focused session of sport climbing away from longer, more committing lines. The rock is a varied canvas, with textures shifting under your fingertips—from smoother slabs to pinchy crimps—each bolt positioned to maintain flow without sacrificing challenge. At the crux, you’ll negotiate three bolts that test your grip and body positioning, culminating in a subtle pull to a two-bolt anchor that’s shared with the adjacent route, The Mausoleum.
Though not long, this route’s appeal lies in its straightforward approach and climbing style, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable warm-up or a quick, satisfying ascent in Big Thompson Canyon. The descent is uncomplicated: a single 40-foot rappel back to the trail, easing concerns about rope drag or complicated exits.
Plan for moderate footwear with good edge capability to handle the changing textures. Hydrate wisely, as the exposed west-facing rock warms quickly under Colorado’s sun, especially in mid to late summer afternoons. Approach conditions are straightforward but bring sturdy shoes for the descent trail, which traverses loose rock and uneven steps. Gravestone offers a blend of accessibility and technical climbing that invites both newcomers to sport routes and experienced climbers looking for a focused challenge in a striking setting.
Be cautious of loose rock near the base flake area and on the approach trail, as footing can be uneven. The descent rappel requires attention to rope management, particularly ensuring ropes clear any sharp edges at the anchor zone.
Start behind the distinctive large flake marking the route’s base.
Wear shoes with solid edging to navigate a mix of smooth and pinchy rock.
Avoid afternoons in high summer—sun exposure heats the western face significantly.
Use a single 60m rope for easy down-rapping off the two-bolt anchor shared with The Mausoleum.
Equipped with four bolts leading to a two-bolt anchor, this route demands standard sport climbing gear and a 40-foot rappel. Fixed gear is reliable and accessible along the line.
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