Grey Rat Rocksicle offers an engaging taste of technical slab and crack climbing that demands focus and finesse. Sitting just a short stride left of Shadow Dance within the South Slabs area, this 90-foot single-pitch route challenges climbers to read the subtle rhythm of the rock. The climb begins at a distinct large boulder positioned roughly 15 to 20 feet lower than the main ledge, setting the stage for a climb that blends delicate face moves with carefully placed gear. Early on, the route forces a runout through a handful of 5.8 face moves, testing concentration and footwork before reaching the left-angling seam where small, precise protection placements become critical. These tricky pro spots reward patience and gear savvy as they secure you through sustained slab sections.

As the climb rises, it continues to weave through subtle textures and cracks, offering a rewarding combination of slab climbing and seam placements. The upper section skirts beneath a roof—here one can choose to finish at the well-known chain anchors or push on for a second pitch. This optional extension climbs the more fragile and lichen-covered rock to reach the summit, requiring additional caution but providing spectacular views of the Poudre Canyon surroundings.

Located in Colorado’s Poudre Canyon near Fort Collins, Grey Rat Rocksicle weaves through a quiet slice of the South Slabs, an area prized for its granite walls and moderate approach distances. The trail to the base is straightforward but demands alertness for route-finding amid scattered bushes and rocks. With an average rating of 5.8 R, the route’s risk factor is heightened by sparsely protectable sections, encouraging climbers to bring the smallest cams, nuts, and offset pieces to maximize security. Fixed hardware is minimal, though clipping the first two bolts of adjacent Shadow Dance can ease the opening runout if desired.

Gear preparation is key here: small passive protection and micro cams make or break the experience. Footwear with sticky edges enhances grip on the slab, while timing your ascent during midday light ensures comfortable visibility on the slightly shaded face. Hydrate well and prepare for variable temperatures; summers bring dry, warm conditions, but rapid weather shifts are possible.

Climbers should approach this classic route with respect for its runout sections and the delicate rock above the roof. A controlled descent involves a single rappel from the chain anchors back to the ledge, followed by a careful walk off the upper ledge down toward the approach point. Caution is advised given loose debris near the summit and limited natural handholds en route down. Grey Rat Rocksicle is a route that balances mental toughness with technical restraint, making it a meaningful outing for seasoned trad climbers ready to explore the South Slabs’ quieter side.