Tucked away on the right wall of a prominent chimney in a substantial buttress within Colorado National Monument, "Mother's Day" offers an unexpected trad climbing escape that rewards those willing to venture off the typical path. This single-pitch 5.8 route extends around 25 feet, providing a clean corner perfect for climbers seeking a blend of moderate difficulty and skilled movement. Arriving here is an adventure in itself: from the East Entrance kiosk, you’ll follow Rim Rock Drive for roughly 1.8 miles until you spot a right-angle arrow sign pointing toward the climb’s access. A brief but deliberate scramble leads to the base, engaging your legs and mind before the hands even reach the rock.

The climb begins with a warm-up corner crack that shifts from tight to generous hand jams—a tactile introduction that invites focus on technique. As you ascend into the chimney, the climbing becomes a subtle mix of hand cracks merged with face holds that keep your fingers dancing along the rock’s contours. Protection is straightforward yet demands attentiveness; a combination of cams from sizes #1/2 to #3 1/2 anchors your progress, supplemented by a vintage piton, a quarter-inch bolt, and wire that testify to the route’s history.

The rock here feels solid and clean, offering confidence with each move. What sets this climb apart is its quiet setting—while other activity buzzes nearby, you are granted a moment to connect with the cliff’s raw energy. The environmental sounds—the rustling of cliffside scrub and the distant hum of the Monument below—contrast with the focused silence of climbing. When you reach the top, a 75-foot rappel is your swift return to the ground, a final technical moment that requires steady rope management.

This route suits climbers comfortable with single-pitch trad climbs who prefer a mix of crack and face climbing without overwhelming complexity. Given its location, it’s best tackled in the cooler hours of morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat that can bake these western rocks, especially in summer. Hydration is critical—bring plenty of water and expect some sun exposure on approach and at the belay. Footwear with solid edging capabilities will aid security on the corner jams and slabby chimney sections.

For those charting a visit, the crux lies in navigating the approach and settling into the chimney’s rhythm. The route delivers its character without fuss—straightforward climbs, solid protection rooms, and genuine quiet. A rare find inside a bustling climbing area, Mother's Day calls for attentive preparation, steady hands, and an openness to discovery.