High above the valley floor at 8,129 feet, Pleasant Avenue sits quietly in the mountain pines, waiting to surprise those who venture away from Colorado’s more traveled crags. Those in search of tranquil settings and unique problems will feel right at home among the granite blocks of this underserved little sector. The soft crunch of needles underfoot, the wide Colorado sky overhead, and the cool, invigorating breeze remind you that you’re deep in the Buena Vista high country – and trust that the trip pays off for anyone willing to follow the path less taken.

Pleasant Avenue is tucked in the eastern reaches of the Arkansas Valley’s so-called Neglected Area, living up to its reputation as an overlooked gem. While the classics here may be few, what exists offers climbers a close connection with the stone and the surroundings. The highlight is clear: Problem 5 (V4), with a memorable four-star rating, stands out as a proud test piece for lovers of technical, rewarding movement. Every move draws focus, with sharp attention paid to footwork and body position – a lesson in the subtle art of bouldering.

You won’t find crowds here, just the sound of your heartbeat and the wind threading through the branches. Six problems dot the area, presenting a range somewhere in the moderate to harder-than-expected, though the exact spread of grades keeps the suspense alive for each new attempt. The ambiance is unhurried, encouraging careful exploration, patient projecting, and the pleasure of unplugged days in the mountain air.

Approaching Pleasant Avenue means leaving behind the familiar and setting out with a spirit of curiosity. While trail details remain to be clarified (check for updates and ask at local climbing shops), the journey rewards a sense of adventure and navigation skills. Keep a GPS handy – your destination is precisely at 38.87324, -106.14811. The absence of a well-trodden path is part of the adventure; choose your steps over gentle slopes and through fragrant pine, aiming always for the boulders that peer out from the landscape like scattered hilltop riddles.

Expect single-pitch bouldering, most problems topping out under 15 feet. Landings are generally flat, but bring a couple of crash pads to keep things comfortable – you’ll want extra coverage for those tricky finish moves. The forest setting means pleasant shade through the summer months, ideal for long projecting sessions during Buena Vista’s classic crisp, dry days. Shoulder seasons are arguably the most enjoyable, with fall bringing golden light and spring offering easy temperatures. Sudden mountain storms, though infrequent, roll in quickly – always keep an eye on the sky.

Downclimbing is the standard way off most problems, with easy walk-offs and no rappels required. Watch for loose pine duff and be mindful of mossy or slick holds, especially in the aftermath of rain. Packing out your trash and brushing excess chalk off holds is especially important here, as the area’s wild, untouched vibe depends on all visitors minimizing impact.

Pleasant Avenue is not about quantity, but about the quality of solitude, the rhythm of quiet forest days, and the satisfaction when your hands finally stick that crux on Problem 5. Plan to spend a relaxed day – the setting encourages lingering. Scope your landings, double-check weather, respect the delicate alpine plant life at this elevation, and immerse yourself in one of the valley’s best-kept secrets. You may not return home with a ticklist full of classics, but what you do conquer will stay with you far longer. And out here, a peaceful send feels all the more earned.