Adventure Collective

Pebbles: A Classic Trad Climb in Jurassic Park

Estes Park, Colorado United States
diagonal crack
single-pitch
trad
established
shared anchor
Length: 70 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Pebbles
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Pebbles is a concise trad climb featuring a clean diagonal crack just left of Bam Bam in Jurassic Park. Offering steady protection and rewarding footwork, it’s a perfect route for intermediate climbers ready to explore classic Colorado crack climbing within the scenic Estes Park Valley."

Pebbles: A Classic Trad Climb in Jurassic Park

Pebbles offers a straightforward 70-foot climb that challenges climbers with a distinctive diagonal crack tucked just to the left of Bam Bam in the Jurassic Park area of Bed Rock. This single-pitch trad route provides a satisfying adventure for climbers eager to sharpen their crack climbing skills on solid Colorado stone. The rock itself is reliable, though the route requires precise gear placement ranging from thin finger-sized cams up to larger nuts at 3 1/2 inches. Approaching the climb, you'll find yourself at the heart of Estes Park Valley, where Colorado’s rugged wilderness embraces you with crisp mountain air and the sounds of distant pines swaying gently in the breeze.

The crack entices with a mix of hand jams and finger locks, coaxing you upward with steady, well-protected moves. Two fixed bolts assist in the approach to and exit from the crack — the latter shared with the adjacent Bam Bam route — offering subtle security while maintaining the traditional feel. This climb rewards those who come prepared with a standard rack of cams sized 3/8" to 3 1/2". Be deliberate with each piece: placements can be subtle but hold firm when properly seated.

The setting is rustic yet accessible, with a short approach that threads through rocky terrain and low alpine scrub. As you climb, the face opens to an exposed vantage where broad views of the surrounding valley begin to unfold. The sun hits the face in mid-morning, so starting early helps avoid overheating and keeps hands dry. The route’s moderate 5.8 rating is approachable for most intermediate climbers but expect the crux near the crack’s midsection to test your footwork and gear placements.

Pebbles is an ideal climb for trad enthusiasts looking for quality stone and a solid crack that demands focus without overwhelming difficulty. It pairs well with a climb on Bam Bam for a fulfilling day split between two adjacent lines with shared anchors. The descent is straightforward with a single rappel from the shared anchor or a controlled walk-off to the base. Take your time on the approach and descent; loose rocks and shifting footing require steady attention.

Whether you’re brushing up on gear tricks or easing into traditional routes, Pebbles delivers a grounded yet engaging experience. Remember to pack ample water and to climb during stable weather—summer afternoons can bring swift mountain thunderstorms. Footwear with sticky rubber will enhance your grip on the edges and quartz flakes that pepper the route. This climb stands as a solid stepping stone for those exploring the broader treasures of the Estes Park climbing scene.

Climber Safety

Loose rock on the approach and descent requires vigilance—maintain deliberate footing. Avoid climbing late in the day to minimize exposure to afternoon storms common in mountain environments.

Route Details

TypeTrad
Pitches1
Length70 feet

Local Tips

Start early to catch morning sun and avoid warm, sweaty hands on the route.

Bring a full trad rack with cams up to 3 1/2" for secure placements along the crack.

Combine your climb with Bam Bam for a rewarding day of adjacent routes sharing anchors.

Watch footing on the approach path; loose rocks require careful steps.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8
Quality
Consensus:The 5.8 rating feels true to form here, with solid but not overly sustained difficulty. The crux is centered in the diagonal crack where careful hand and foot placements push the challenge just enough. This climb fits well alongside similar local lines like Bam Bam, sharing fixed anchor bolts and gear demands.

Gear Requirements

Expect to use cams ranging from 3/8" to 3 1/2" to protect the diagonal crack with firm placements. Two bolts assist the approach to and exit from the crack, sharing the last bolt with Bam Bam’s anchor.

Share Your Ascent

Upload your photos of Pebbles and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.

Tags

diagonal crack
single-pitch
trad
established
shared anchor