"Pressed Ham carves a single-pitch trad chimney route on the bold rock of The Taj Mahal formation. Though protection is sparse and big gear is a must, this 190-foot climb delivers an unexpectedly fun test of technique and mental grit in Colorado’s Rampart Range."
Pressed Ham stakes its claim on the jagged contours of The Taj Mahal formation, a raw and gritty climb set within the sprawling Rampart Range near South Platte, Colorado. This single-pitch trad route stretches 190 feet, weaving through a large, imposing chimney that demands respect and deliberate movement. The approach to the climb sets the tone—rough trails and rugged terrain lead you to the base, where the rock’s texture is coarse and peppered with dirt and loose debris. The chimney itself dares you to confront its dirty confines, a challenge enhanced by the scarcity of protection placements along the way.
The crack features two clearly defined sections, but it’s the upper segment that tests both your skills and nerves. Here, standard protection struggles to find purchase—making the inclusion of large camming devices like Big Bros a practical necessity. This gear not only raises safety margins but also unlocks a greater level of confidence to push through the technical crux that sits near the top. While the route may appear straightforward from below, its deceptive ease disguises the effort required to keep control amid the chimney’s shifting holds and awkward positions.
Despite the sparse protection and the need for big gear, Pressed Ham offers a rewarding climb that feels more engaging than intimidating. The chimney's walls, coated in chalk and dust, provide a tactile experience of the mountain's raw character, teasing climbers with subtle friction and a mix of jamming and stemming moves. The elevation offers intermittent views of the surrounding Rampart Range, where open skies and pine stands stretch toward the horizon, grounding this climb in Colorado’s rugged wildness.
For those planning an ascent, the approach is relatively short but scrappy, moving along the established trail by Jackson Creek and intersecting the route at The Taj Mahal. After climbing, an easy walk-off via the path of least resistance leads you back down, keeping the descent straightforward. Weather during spring and fall tends to be ideal—warm sunshine balanced by cool mountain breezes, with fewer bugs and stable rock conditions. The route’s PG13 rating hints at a fair degree of caution required; it’s not a casual chimney crawl, but a test of both gear preparedness and climbing finesse.
Detailed knowledge of gear needs pays dividends here. Bringing a well-rounded trad rack heavy on large cams ensures you can safeguard those tricky mid- and upper sections. Footwear with solid grip is essential, as dirt and loose rock demand steady footing and mindful placement. Climbers should hydrate well and move deliberately, as the physical exertion combined with mental focus creates a climb worth the challenge. Pressed Ham is a gritty encounter with Colorado’s wild rock, rewarding those ready to embrace its raw edges and technical demands.
The chimney’s dirty, loose nature means vigilance is crucial, particularly at the upper crux where protection options thin out. Avoid climbing immediately after rain when the rock may be slick, and double-check all placements for security. A fall here could be dangerous, so large cams and careful movement are key to keeping the risk manageable.
Carry a rack heavy on large cams for the tricky upper chimney section.
Choose footwear with solid grip to manage the loose rock and dirt.
Plan your climb during spring or fall for the best weather and rock conditions.
Expect a walk-off descent on easy terrain—no rappel required.
Big gear is essential here; bring several large cams (Big Bros) to protect the upper chimney where placements are scarce and the crux lies.
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