Playing Timmy Sticks offers climbers a direct, hands-on encounter with one of Big Thompson Canyon’s lesser-traveled lines. Positioned just right of Neighsayer, the route invites you into a parallel crack system, marked by a noticeable flake roughly 30 feet off the ground. The flake, a striking feature in this granite dihedral, adds a subtle element of suspense—its firmness is reassuring but demands respect and attentive protection. As you move upward, the path follows into the rightmost dihedral above, culminating near the top of the rock formation, where you intersect the final pitch of Eagle's Beak. This approach gives climbers a solid taste of Palisade Mountain’s textured granite character, combining technical hand jams and face holds with a natural flow across two engaging pitches.

Rated at 5.9-, both pitches hold cruxes that require precise footwork and steady crack climbing technique. Though the rating suggests an approachable challenge for experienced trad climbers, the combination of subtle exposure and the occasional tricky placement keeps the climb engaging. Standard rack gear fits well for protection, but expect to adjust placements thoughtfully to navigate the flake and the dihedral’s nuances safely.

Situated within Estes Park Valley, the area delivers expansive views stretching down Big Thompson Canyon, where rugged forests and river valleys press against the mountainside. The approach trail rewards with a quiet forest route, threading through pines and spruces, with the sounds of shifting wildlife and rustling leaves setting a calm, natural soundtrack. The moderate hike to the base requires about 25 minutes over stable footing, making for a reliable warm-up before the commitment on the rock.

When planning your ascent, consider early morning starts to beat the afternoon sun on the southeast-facing wall, and always check weather conditions as the region can shift quickly from sun to storm. Proper footwear that balances grip and comfort will serve well, alongside hydration and layered clothing to handle cool mountain breezes. With a manageable length of 200 feet spread over two pitches, Playing Timmy Sticks is a rewarding day climb that blends moderate exposure, solid granite crack climbing, and a touch of adventurous unpredictability.

For climbers eager to step off busier routes and experience Palisade Mountain with a route that balances accessible difficulty and natural features, Playing Timmy Sticks offers a straightforward yet memorable challenge. Its unique crack and flake character, paired with the serene surrounding forest and canyon views, makes this climb a compelling pick for those looking to sharpen trad skills on granite without sacrificing sensory immersion.