Rising sharply from the pine-studded slopes near West Creek, Lost in Space Direct offers a compelling trad climb on Colorado’s Sheep’s Nose that challenges and rewards in equal measure. Just a brief, fifteen-minute walk from the parking area on Douglas County Road 68, this route cuts a striking line up the southeast buttress of the 8,894-foot summit, bathed in warm sunlight that lingers well into the day. Towering Ponderosa pines frame the approach trail, their rough bark and pine needles underfoot setting a natural rhythm before the rock demands your focus.

Lost in Space begins at the southeast corner’s lowest point, identifiable by a ledge crowned with a small pine tree growing from a right-leaning corner about 75 feet above the ground. The climb ascends through four distinct pitches, each blending technical crack climbing with open slab and corner features that test finger strength and route-finding. Pitch one offers two options: a 5.7 hand crack meandering upward into a moderate 5.5 corner, or a bolder 5.9 slab variation calling for confident footwork and nerves of steel. In colder months, when snow or ice coat this pitch, the adjacent Lamb’s Prey crack—tight and technical at 5.9-—presents a worthy alternative.

Pitch two maintains the momentum with a 5.8+ finger crack reached by a delicate right traverse around a sharp arete. The climb then pushes upward through airy moves that are at once thrilling and exposed, before easing into a short dihedral where a comfortable belay awaits. By pitch three, the grade nudges to 5.9, with thin cracks forcing precise sequences. A crux demands moving out onto slab, balancing delicately before the climb relaxes into a 5.4 corner with solid holds leading to a spacious pedestal belay.

The final pitch, rated 5.7, showcases a clean and well-protected right-facing hand crack that climbs smoothly for 100 feet. As the angle eases and the corner thins, climbers must trust their skills on open summit slabs, placing gear carefully as they push toward the peak’s exposed rim. This summit offers sweeping views of the South Platte basin and neighboring ridges, rewarding effort with peaceful panoramas and the fresh mountain air.

Protection on Lost in Space demands a full rack of hexes and slung cowbells up to 3.6 inches, with placements generally solid but occasionally requiring a keen eye for size and placement security. The rock’s texture offers dependable friction, but selective gear and careful footwork remain crucial. For descent, head down and left, scrambling and downclimbing with caution—winter conditions can cloak the route in snow and ice, turning the return into a different kind of challenge. Local lore warns to "watch out for the Yeti," a fitting nod to the wild spirit of this mountain.

Lost in Space Direct is an accessible yet enriching climb, suited to trad climbers who enjoy a mix of crack systems and slab moves in a sunny, pine-fringed setting. Its classic status on Sheep’s Nose comes not only from technical merit but also from the undeniable pleasure of being out in front of the wall, moving steadily upward toward the sky and rock. For anyone headed to the South Platte region, this route offers a memorable day that balances hands-on climbing with Colorado’s enduring alpine character.