Rising sharply from the rugged expanse of Rocky Mountain National Park, the Laid Back route charts a compelling line up Notchtop’s northeast ridge. This climbing experience starts with a textured approach through third-class terrain—firm chimney-gullies and rippled slabs that engage your senses with their raw granite detail. The climb’s signature feature is a clean, commanding summit dihedral on the pinnacle's northeast corner, visible for miles around and offering a practical landmark for navigation and anticipation.

The ascent begins on the east face of the semi-detached pinnacle, where you'll step carefully across slabby fingers of granite. The first pitch eases you onto these slabs, moving diagonally left to a solid stance below a headwall. Rated 5.6, it balances exposure with straightforward climbing, allowing you to focus on steady footwork and picking clean lines. As you progress, the second pitch climbs steep cracks emerging through a 20-foot vertical wall, then threads a less taxing ramp system that deposits you on a broad ledge. Here, 5.7 moves test your crack technique, rewarding persistent effort with an airy perch and wide views.

The final pitch, known affectionately as the "Magical Mystery Pitch," ups the ante. You’ll climb a striking dihedral before negotiating an exposed 20-foot traverse that demands precise foot and hand placements. Beyond lies the bottomless summit dihedral—an exquisite corner for jamming and laybacking your way skyward to the crest. At 5.8, this pitch packs the most technical and sustained moves of the route, including a section of crumbly rock that requires careful attention. The feeling of standing atop this alpine sentinel, warmed by the sun that Dakers Gowans once laid back under, brings a satisfying sense of accomplishment and connection to the mountain.

Protection along the way is generous for trad climbers, with placements comfortably accommodating gear up to 3 inches. This setup offers reassurance without stifling adventure, but climbers should remain mindful of the delicate sections near the summit where the rock quality demands respectful caution.

Accessing Laid Back demands a short but rugged approach through alpine forest and rocky terrain typical of RMNP. Expect moderate elevation gain and uneven footing that can make early morning starts ideal to avoid afternoon heat and lingering snow patches. The area is quiet outside peak seasons, providing a remote atmosphere seldom interrupted by crowds. When planning your climb, pack sturdy footwear with good edge control, ample hydration, and weather-appropriate layers—the mountain’s microclimate can shift quickly.

Descending is straightforward; after the summit, look for established anchor points to rappel or downclimb safely back to the base, avoiding fragile ledges and loose rock. Respecting the mountain’s rhythms and rhythms ensures a smooth exit and an experience that stays vivid long after your descent.

Laid Back is a rewarding alpine trad climb that offers exposure, varied terrain, and a moderate challenge, perfect for adventurous climbers ready to embrace RMNP’s wild edge. Its combination of technical cracks, slab movement, and classic corners invites exploration and thoughtful movement, making every step feel earned and every moment alive with the mountain’s quiet energy.