"Hurlin' is a lesser-known trad route tucked beneath Gollum's Arch Rock in Colorado’s Lumpy Ridge. This 120-foot, single-pitch adventure offers a blend of careful footwork, strategic protection, and quiet solitude for climbers ready to explore an off-the-radar gem."
Hurlin' offers a rewarding slice of bold, low-traffic trad climbing tucked just beneath the towering presence of Gollum's Arch Rock in Colorado’s Lumpy Ridge. This climb is a call to adventurers who prefer routes off the beaten path, favoring a hands-on approach with a touch of spice rather than polished, crowded faces. The line runs approximately 120 feet along the west-facing rock chunk marked by deep water grooves, demanding precise footwork and a steady head as you ascend.
Located just east of the well-known Twin Owls formation, the approach places you in a quieter pocket of the Estes Park Valley where the rock feels solid and the atmosphere untouched. The path snakes down a narrow gully, guiding you toward the target—the unmistakable slab marked by a set of three lone bolts on the southern face. This climb’s proximity to Triangle Rock locates it firmly in a compact climbing zone, inviting exploration.
The route starts with a bouldering move onto the face before angling left across a gently inclined dike to reach the first bolt. From there, the climb continues leftward, staying low to clip the second bolt along a line of subtle features. The technical section begins when you work upward on crystalline holds and liebacks to reach a fixed wired piece. After this crux, the effort intensifies as you highstep and mantle to clip the third bolt. The final push involves heading right along a ramp with grooves and cracks that lead to a resting tree about 120 feet above the ground.
Protection is a hybrid challenge: three bolts, one fixed wire, and a rack of cams ranging from a green Alien to a #2 Camalot provide the necessary coverage. Placements require a practiced eye, especially where cams must be nestled in tighter cracks or chosen carefully to avoid drag. Speaking of rope drag, the upper pitch tests your management skills as the line's angles and protection placements produce noticeable tension.
This single-pitch climb is rated 5.9-, perfect for those who want to mix traditional climbing with the security of bolts and fixed pro. The grade is approachable but holds surprises, especially in the delicate moves on crystals and occasional reachy sequences. Climbers familiar with the nearby Lumpy Ridge classics will find Hurlin’ a refreshing detour that demands focused footwork and smooth transitions.
Getting down is straightforward but requires attention. Walk off by downclimbing right, following ledges carefully while maintaining balance on seasoned feet. The descent is exposed enough to recommend caution but stays within the comfortable realm for confident climbers.
This climb is a quiet testament to the slightly wild character of Estes Park’s lesser-known faces. It invites those with a spirit for adventure and a taste for stone that dares to be climbed on its own terms. Timing your visit in spring through fall will yield the best rock conditions and dry holds, while lighter footwear helps you maintain grip and precision on the finicky sections.
Whether you’re looking to break away from crowded classics or sharpen your trad instincts in a scenic, raw setting, Hurlin’ delivers a digestible yet engaging experience that balances challenge with charm.
Mind the moderate rope drag near the top, which can catch climbers off guard. Additionally, the approach gully can be slick after rains or spring melt, so leave extra time for careful footing there. The descent right downclimb has some loose rocks; steady steps and a slow pace are essential.
Approach Gollum’s Arch from Twin Owls, then head east and down the gully to find the climb’s distinctive water-grooved west face.
Watch for rope drag near the top; use longer slings or extend protection when possible.
Climb with caution during spring runoff seasons as the gully can be slippery and damp.
Plan your descent by downclimbing right carefully; avoid rushing to maintain footing on loose ledges.
Pack a rack that includes 3 bolts, a fixed wired piece, and cams from green Alien up to a #2 Camalot to handle the mix of fixed and natural protection. Prepare for some rope drag near the top due to the route’s layout.
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