Temperature's Rising unfolds on the sunlit South Face of the Leftovers formation, tucked within the rugged contours of Turkey Rocks near South Platte, Colorado. This classic two-pitch trad route offers climbers a quietly satisfying mix of technical crack climbing and thoughtful route-finding wrapped in a surprisingly approachable package. It demands respect not with overwhelming difficulty but through its steady rhythm and natural features that reward careful movement.

From the moment you step off the trail and grab the first clean, right-angled crack, the climb sets a deliberate pace. The initial moves are the most demanding, requiring steady body positioning and precise gear placement, with a well-placed #4.5 Camalot offering crucial protection. Vegetation stakes its claim midway—two bushes grip the crack about 50 feet above the ground, becoming familiar landmarks as you weave upward. This greenery softens the roughness of the rock and provides a tactile connection to the environment that’s surprisingly calming in its persistence.

Above the bushes, the crack transitions into a consistent 5.8 pitch stretching roughly 100 feet. Here, the angle eases just enough to let flow replace brute force, inviting climbers to find balance over power. The rock feels steady beneath your fingers, allowing you to focus on technique and rhythm. The second pitch drops the difficulty further to about 5.5 and shifts direction, moving right toward the summit. The terrain opens up, encouraging exploration, but poses a gentle reminder of the need for vigilance—downclimbing from the top is possible but not recommended due to its exposed sections.

A safer option caps the experience: a tricky traverse left for about 30 feet before letting you escape on foot toward the north. This exit route cleverly avoids unnecessary risk while adding a touch of route-finding intrigue.

Temperature's Rising may not dominate the local guidebooks, but it rewards those who appreciate a route less obvious at first glance. It’s a climb that speaks to steady progress, quiet focus, and the satisfaction found in mastering modest challenges. For climbers who want an accessible yet engaging trad line near Denver’s climbing hubs, this route installs itself as a worthwhile venture.

Expect mostly solid rock with standard protection requirements. The approach is brief, making it an ideal half-day outing with enough room for thoughtful ascent and local discovery. Pack layered clothing and enough water, since afternoons can warm quickly on the exposed face, and be ready to enjoy the views of the wild landscape stretching out from the ledges.

In summary, Temperature's Rising offers a blend of precise crack climbing, natural obstacles, and subtle route-finding that make it a rewarding step up in the South Platte area’s climbing repertoire.