Just One Tick Away offers an inviting introduction to the Mary’s Bust Area in Big Thompson Canyon, where steady rock and approachable moves create a compelling climb for those ready to explore beyond the nearby Ixodes route. Sitting comfortably under 100 feet, this single-pitch trad climb rewards with solid features and subtle variations in its crack system, unfolding across less than vertical terrain that eases the physical toll but maintains enough contact point diversity to keep climbers alert.

From the base, the climb begins just right of a prominent fracture line beneath a broad knob that serves as a pivotal foothold and mental checkpoint. The initial moves ask for precise body positioning—either a mantle or a semi-mantle—to lock onto the knob, a natural staging area where the rock offers excellent grips on both sides of the fissure. The crack’s character subtly shifts here, inviting you to continue upward through a narrow opening, then veer right onto a series of fun flakes that add a playful rhythm to the climb.

As you progress, expect a brief traverse left onto a ledge before picking your way through a groove that skirts right of Ixodes’ anchors. The rock quality stands out compared to its neighbor, feeling more solid and less steep, helping those who find the Ixodes moves demanding to gain confidence with less strain.

Due to the nature of the route, this climb functions best as a top-rope, allowing a safer experience while testing your crack climbing finesse. Protection zones appear as a puzzle a few dozen feet up, where strategic placement of a green Alien or a #2 Camalot alongside a #4 BD wired stopper and a #0 TCU can keep the line secure while limiting rope drag. Leading requires nerves and careful planning, given the heads-up on the move placements and the clutch of protection spots.

Set in the iconic Rocky Mountain environment of Estes Park Valley, the area carries a rugged spirit born from its steep canyons and exposed cliffs. The nearby forest hums with life, and as you climb, the canyon air shifts with the whispers of pine and the distant roar of the Big Thompson River daring your ascent. Practicality calls for timing your approach when the sun lights the south-facing wall late morning to early afternoon, avoiding early chill or afternoon heat that can dull grip sensitivity.

Access is straightforward along established trails, with under an hour's approach that winds its way through forest litter and rocky switchbacks — keep your boots grippy and your pack light. After climbing, the descent involves carefully lowering to the base with a proper anchor setup, navigating loose rock on the trail below, so attentive rappel management is essential.

Just One Tick Away strikes a balance between accessibility and challenge, serving as a welcomed step up for climbers craving a route that blends solid rock with manageable technicality. With careful preparation, a modest gear rack, and respect for the route’s moves, you'll enjoy focused adventure along a stretch of Colorado’s high country that tests your skills without overwhelming them.