Lichen or Not offers a concentrated taste of classic Colorado trad climbing, anchored on a compact vertical buttress in the Pine Area of South Platte. This route invites climbers into a raw, tactile experience dominated by a near-perfect hand crack that demands both finesse and commitment. The climb begins with an approach along the well-worn trail to Squat Rock, threading through a cluster of large boulders that guard the base. As you step closer, your eyes lock with a featureful line rising just left of Squat Rock’s summit, where a blocky offwidth crack marks an adjacent 5.10 challenge.

The climb’s opening moves test your hand jam technique, with a thin-hands crux that rewards precision and steady composure. The vertical pitch holds a focused intensity before easing onto slabby ground where route-finding and balance come into play. A single quickdraw protects a key bolt placed before a 5.8 slab section, shifting the climbing style from crack jams to delicate smears. The final stretch climbs a 20-foot 5.6 slab where friction and body position take over as you push toward the anchor.

This short but engaging climb shines for those who appreciate routes that emphasize technique and mental control over sheer power. The single pitch, moderate length, and compact nature make it a great choice for a focused session, either as a warm-up or a standalone route to hone crack skills. The surrounding Pine Area lends an open, airy feel to the experience with rugged granite underfoot and sun-dappled approaches.

Approaching Lichen or Not requires navigating a few large boulders at the rock base, an element that adds variety before the actual climb. Once on the route, standard hand-size gear covers most placements; however, an extra #2 Camalot or 2.5 Friend is advisable to handle any tricky spots. A single bolt offers key protection before the slab, but most of the protection comes from natural placements. Anchoring at the top utilizes a strong tree with slings, solidifying the safety apparatus.

Descending demands careful attention. A 60-meter single-rope rappel returns you to the base, but caution is critical when pulling the rope to avoid it catching in the left gully below the climb. This small detail can prevent a frustrating and time-consuming extraction. The approach and descent together frame the climb with manageable logistics, making this an accessible highlight within the South Platte climbing zone.

Whether you’re sharpening your trad skills or seeking a concise challenge with sound protection, Lichen or Not invites you to engage with the rock’s natural rhythm. It’s a climb that mixes technical hand jams, subtle slab moves, and straightforward descent, offering a well-rounded day out where every hold and foot placement demands focused intention.