Sector D'or et Bleu - Ten Sleep Canyon's Blue and Orange Wall of Challenge

Ten Sleep, Wyoming
overhanging
sport climbing
blue rock
orange rock
shade
Wyoming
technical face
Length: 60-80 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
single pitch
Protected Place
Bighorn National Forest
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Sector D'or et Bleu offers a striking blue and orange overhanging wall in Ten Sleep Canyon, Wyoming, blending moderate routes with some of the area's toughest classics. This fitting arena challenges climbers with technical faces, partial shade, and a stunning high-desert setting."

Sector D'or et Bleu - Ten Sleep Canyon's Blue and Orange Wall of Challenge

Sector D'or et Bleu stands proud as a highlight within the renowned French Cattle Ranch area of Ten Sleep Canyon, Wyoming. Here, the striking contrast of slightly overhanging dark blue and orange rock commands attention and respect from climbers eager to test their mettle. With an elevation of about 8,006 feet, this wall delivers both altitude and atmosphere, enfolding visitors in a climbing experience that balances physical challenge with natural beauty.

The climbing here offers something for a varied crowd, from those seeking moderate routes to seasoned climbers chasing some of the area’s hardest lines. The slightly overhanging face presents routes that reward technique and body control. Many climbers come for intermediate challenges like the stemming line Tutu Man, rated 5.10d, and Escape from the Pod, an almost traditional style 5.10c climb. These routes provide solid preparation or a satisfying day’s outing without the commitment of extreme difficulty.

For those after the classics, Sector D'or et Bleu is a proving ground for some of Ten Sleep’s toughest and most respected climbs. Routes like Pussytoes (5.12d), Sky Pilot (5.13d), Rosey Pussytoes (5.13a), Sugar and Super Mamma (both in the 5.13 range), Blue Light Special (5.13a), and Esplanada (5.12c) draw hardened climbers back time and again. These climbs demand a combination of power, precision, and mental grit—the kind of lines that give Ten Sleep Canyon its reputation as a bold playground for advanced climbers.

The wall’s location just past Sector Shinto offers convenient access, and the surrounding forested shading moderates the intense Wyoming sun, especially in the afternoons. This partial shade provides relief and extended climbing windows during warm months, with the prime season stretching through spring, early summer, and early fall. Weather conditions tend to be dry with low precipitation, but it’s wise to prepare for sudden mountain changes.

MountainProject's notes mention a voluntary closure of nearby Moby Dick area routes through mid-August to protect active raptor nests. Environmental awareness and responsible climbing remain paramount here, underscoring the care needed to sustain Ten Sleep’s fragile ecosystems.

The rock’s texture varies between smooth technical faces and steeper, more demanding bulges that call for solid footwork and upper body strength. Protection tends to be reliable but climbers should remain vigilant about fixed anchor conditions due to recent changes enforced by the Forest Service regarding new bolt development and route alterations. This means sticking to established routes and consulting up-to-date local beta is essential.

Approach trails to Sector D'or et Bleu are manageable and typically well-marked but expect some brush and uneven terrain given the semi-remote canyon setting. The climb ends with a straightforward descent—either by downclimbing or short rappels depending on the chosen route—with no significant hazards, though climbers should always exercise caution on loose rock near the summit.

Gear-wise, bringing a rack suited to sport climbing with a smattering of trad gear for backup is recommended, particularly for lines with mixed protection styles like Escape from the Pod. Expect to use standard cams and quickdraws; detailed route beta is essential to understand the varying protection and anchor setups.

All told, Sector D'or et Bleu is a jewel within Ten Sleep Canyon, where vivid colors meet challenging formations. It strikes a rare balance—accessible to skilled intermediates while offering hard-hitting classics that inspire repeated visits. Whether chasing those landmark climbs or savoring the moderate routes that test movement and stamina, climbers will find an adventure grounded in technical rigor and Wyoming’s spectacular high desert landscape.

Classic climbs here include Tutu Man (5.10d), Franken Squirrel (5.11c), Who the F@&% is Jedediah? (5.12a), Phillip McCrevice (5.12b), Zen Garden (5.12), Pussytoes (5.12d), Doomsday (5.13c), Sky Pilot (5.13d), and Galactic Emperor (5.14a). These names alone signal a canyon that continues to push climbers forward–each route a step deeper into the thrill and challenge Ten Sleep offers.

When planning your visit, consider local restrictions, seasonal raptor closures, and the ongoing conservation efforts that ensure climbing and wildlife coexist in this unique Wyoming sanctuary. With preparation, respect, and determination, Sector D'or et Bleu invites you to climb its stunning blue and orange walls and write your own chapter in Ten Sleep’s climbing legacy.

Climber Safety

While fixed anchors are common, recent USFS regulations have altered some bolts making it critical to verify anchor integrity before climbing. The approach is straightforward but includes uneven ground and occasional brush, so stay alert. Seasonal closures around raptor nests restrict access in some adjacent sectors—respect these to protect wildlife and avoid fines.

Area Details

TypeSport
Pitchessingle pitch
Length60-80 feet

Local Tips

Visit outside of the raptor nesting season (closure through August 15) to avoid restricted areas nearby.

Afternoon shade offers cooler climbing conditions on the wall; mornings can be sunny and hot.

Approach trails are fairly easy but wear sturdy footwear to handle brush and uneven terrain.

Check updated route conditions and local beta before climbing due to recent bolt modifications.

Area Rating

Quality
Consensus:Routes at Sector D'or et Bleu span from moderate to very hard, with grades running roughly 5.10c up to 5.14a. The climbs are known for their slightly overhanging style and technical demands rather than outright power, typically feeling true to their ratings without much sandbagging. Compared to other parts of Ten Sleep Canyon, the climbs here lean toward a solid, consistent difficulty that rewards precision and control over brute force.

Gear Requirements

Expect mostly sport climbing gear with quickdraws and standard cams for occasional trad protection on select routes such as Escape from the Pod. Fixed anchors are present but confirm their reliability due to recent changes in bolt and route policies enforced by the US Forest Service.

Share Your Ascent

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

Tags

overhanging
sport climbing
blue rock
orange rock
shade
Wyoming
technical face