Griff-Orama offers an unconventional line on the left flank of Pulpit Rock’s nadir, set against the rugged backdrop of the Estes Park Valley. This singular pitch rise begins beneath a modest tree standing guard over a lichened slab, inviting climbers into a focused sequence where smears on subtly angled rock demand steady feet and calm intentions. The route offers two distinct variations—each challenging in a different way—and both promise an engaging climb that blends mental sharpness with physical finesse.

Starting at the base, the climber is immediately presented with the choice to either pursue a left-hand crack tucked into a dihedral or angle right toward a now-absent bolt that once marked a critical crux. The left variation demands careful attention to body positioning, coaxing the feet to stay glued to the slab while using the crack for precious handholds. This section feels deceptively straightforward until you sense the subtle difficulty of carefully balancing between solid pro and delicate smears.

The alternative right-hand variation leans into slick slab climbing, with a key crux that requires confident clipping (though the bolt has apparently been removed in recent years) followed by delicate movement up smoother rock. Near the top, climbers must choose their final moves carefully: the left path offers a more independent finish as you climb past an awkward section to reach the tree, while the right route features a traverse and a downclimb toward the old bolt anchor. Both options demand a deliberate approach and solid technique, rewarding the careful climber with a unique perspective on this section of Pulpit Rock.

From the ground, the climb is notable for the texture of the rock, where lichens coat the slab and the air carries the crispness of the high-country environment. The surrounding tidal pull of Cow Creek Canyon and the McGraw Ranch trailhead creates a quiet auditory background, occasionally interrupted by the distant rush of wind through the pine branches. This rock calls for patience and subtle adaptation—foot placements are precarious but rewarding if trusted.

Gear recommendation is straightforward but critical: a light rack to a #2 Camalot is essential for protecting the crack, while bolts, once part of the route's security, are no longer reliable. The climb’s PG13 rating reflects the need to be prepared for some route-finding and placement nuance, and climbers are advised to bring their best judgment for protection and movement. This route stands apart from more polished sport climbs nearby, offering both a mental and physical workout on traditionally styled terrain.

Accessing Griff-Orama requires a short approach from the McGraw Ranch trailhead, following the Devil's Gulch and Dry Gulch Roads into the heart of the Estes Park Valley. The approach is manageable but demands proper attention as the terrain shifts from forested trail to open slabs laced with natural features. Spring through fall offers the most reliable climbing conditions, with early mornings or late afternoons providing a shaded ascent when the sun’s heat becomes intense.

For climbers seeking a brief but gratifying challenge tucked into an extraordinary setting, Griff-Orama is a rewarding option. Sensory details like the rough, lichen-covered rock under fingertips and the quiet brush of the alpine breeze elevate this pitch beyond the usual. It's a climb that asks you to engage fully, respect the nuances of traditional protection, and savor each movement where nature’s character boldly marks the path.