As you crest the final switchback on the Green Mountain West Ridge Trail, the landscape opens to reveal the Sacred Cliffs, a weathered ribbon of sandstone blocks and buttresses lining the north-south shoulder of Boulder’s Green Mountain. While the area may not dominate the horizon like some of Boulder’s more world-famous formations, there’s a grounded sense of adventure here that rewards exploration and sharp attention to detail—qualities every climber can appreciate.

The Sacred Cliffs boast a rugged, no-nonsense collection of nearly 50 routes, ranging from classic trad cracks to fully bolted faces. The rock itself—a gritty, characterful sandstone—invites comparison to Eldorado Canyon or the Mickey Mouse Wall, with edges, pockets, and the sort of subtle features that demand good footwork. Most routes clock in between 40 and 100 feet, perfect for after-work missions or linking up several pitches in a day. At least one line even stretches to two pitches and 140 feet, a testament to the area’s variety and potential. Here, you’ll find many routes that push into double-digit grades, but don’t worry if you’re after something friendlier—standout lines in the 5.9 and easier range offer plenty of fun for all.

Unlike some sun-baked crags, the Sacred Cliffs' western orientation means the faces bask in golden light from noon to sunset, an irresistible draw in spring and autumn. The approach is straightforward and scenic: from Base Line Road just west of Boulder, follow a rough 4WD track east before picking up a faintly signed trail that winds through open pine and juniper for 3/4 mile. With the trail gaining only around 200-300 vertical feet, you’ll top out near the true summit of Green Mountain at 8,144 feet—your lungs may notice the altitude, but your legs will thank you for the modest effort.

First developed more than a decade ago, these cliffs have become a hub for Boulder locals seeking a casual vibe, quick access, and a mix of climbing styles. Joe Desimone and friends carved out many of the bold classics here, while others—including Greg Hand and Ray Snead—added their own flavor to the mix. Not everything is documented, and part of the fun is poking around, discovering lines tucked among the stacked blocks and subtle buttresses. Numbering begins at the northern tip on Name Game Rock, with "Close to The Edge" kicking off the adventure. But don’t stop there: the Sacred Cliffs reward those who explore southward along the ridge.

For those chasing the best of the area, a trio of classic climbs stands out. "West Slab (V0)" delivers clean movement for boulderers wanting a sun-warmed testpiece. "Perfect Hand Crack (5.9)" is just what it sounds like—a satisfying, textbook crack for trad aficionados hungry for solid jams and a little spice. Looking for a challenge? "Say Bye to Your Tips (5.12)" will humble even strong climbers with its demanding sequences and sharp edges.

While the Sacred Cliffs offer year-round potential, take note of wildlife closures for raptor protection—access can be affected during nesting season, so always check the latest updates before heading out. Rock quality is generally solid but expect the occasional loose flake—test holds before launching into the crux. And as with much of Boulder’s terrain, consider snow or ice on north-facing approaches in the shoulder seasons.

When your day winds down, the descent is as mellow as the approach: walk-off via simple trails back toward your car, with sweeping views across Boulder below and the Front Range stretching into the distance. For those willing to dig a little deeper, the Sacred Cliffs prove that adventure isn’t always loud or obvious—it’s often found where the afternoon sun glows against weathered stone, and every subtle feature rewards careful eyes and confident movement.