Rising sharply on the north face of Tick Dome, the route known as "If Sheep Had Heels and Toes" invites climbers into a rugged, elemental encounter with raw granite. This single-pitch traditional climb follows a prominent chimney-crack system framing the summit block—the "Sheep's Foot"—a hulking formation that mimics the shape of a cloven hoof when viewed from the northwest. From the moment you set foot on the approach, the air cools under the shadow of this imposing rock, and the surrounding forest hums softly with the rustle of pine needles and the occasional call of distant birds.

The climb itself demands respect for its big gear placements, with the initial flaring chimney offering protection that swallows hand-size cams to larger units. The crack running through the back of this chimney is clean and continuous, challenging climbers to stay committed as they ascend a sequence that feels both timeless and grounded in the natural architecture of the mountain. The north-facing aspect keeps the climb shaded for most of the day, lending a crispness to the rock that helps preserve friction but also calls for warm layers in cooler seasons.

Tick Dome sits just off the well-traveled corridors near South Platte, Colorado, giving climbers access to vast wilderness and wildlife-rich forests. The approach trails wind through stands of fir and spruce, their scents sharp in the cool morning air, leading you to a base where the stone juts abruptly skyward. Climbing here balances quiet solitude with an unmistakable sense of place within the broader environment, where each hold and crack seems to pulse with the mountain’s steadfast, slow-moving energy.

As a 5.9 trad route with a single pitch, the climb is approachable but not without its demands. The chimney’s size and flare require solid technique, steady footwork, and confidence in placing big protection. Be prepared with a rack emphasizing larger cams and slings to secure gear in the wide crack system. The rock feels solid, but weathering has worn some edges; a measured approach will help avoid unexpected slips.

For those drawn to climbs where the landscape shapes the experience, "If Sheep Had Heels and Toes" offers a straightforward yet memorable challenge that rewards preparation and attentiveness. The expansive view from the summit block grants sweeping looks across the South Platte and nearby valleys, framing the climb with a sense of accomplishment and connection to Colorado’s wild heart. Climbers seeking a balance of adventure and practicality will find this route’s clear beta and manageable length an inviting way to test skills amid nature’s quiet but enduring grandeur.