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Triceratops: A Bold Slabby Ascent on Left Hand Rock

Estes Park, Colorado United States
slab
crack
single pitch
bolted
trad gear
exposed
Colorado
Estes Park
Length: 80 ft
Type: Trad, Sport
Stars
Pitches
1
Location
Triceratops
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Triceratops offers a compelling slab climb up left Hand Rock’s rightmost wall, blending moderate crack moves and bolted protection in a single pitch just shy of 80 feet. It's a solid choice for climbers seeking technical slab challenges in the heart of Estes Park Valley."

Triceratops: A Bold Slabby Ascent on Left Hand Rock

Triceratops carves a compelling route up the sun-drenched right-hand slab of Left Hand Rock, a standout feature in the Jurassic Park sector near Lily Lake, tucked into the rugged heart of Estes Park Valley, Colorado. This single-pitch climb stretches about 80 feet and offers a blend of traditional and sport climbing elements that gently coax you upwards across a textured rock face. Approaching the climb, you’re greeted by the broad slab that immediately tests your balance and footwork with its subtle friction holds and open feel. The rock here isn’t screaming vertical, but its angle demands steady focus, rewarding careful foot placement and a smooth rhythm.

Midway, the path aligns with a bulge capped by a near-vertical crack. This feature commands respect: it’s the crux, nudging the difficulty to a solid 5.8- level. Climbers will find a well-positioned flake that acts like an old friend, offering a reliable handhold to vault past the bulge and shift your weight upward. Though the route largely dances at 5.6 to 5.7 difficulty, this bulge punctuates the climb with a pulse-raising move that sets it apart from typical slabs in the area.

Protection is a mix of bolts and gear placements. Clipping into around five bolts which run on a somewhat sparse rhythm, climbers need to remain alert especially between the second and third bolts, where the distance elongates into a test of faith. Those with traditional rack experience may find small C4 or C3 cams handy to tuck in here and soften the exposure. The top anchors feature two bolts fixed with twist-links for a secure belay station, affording a safe vantage point to enjoy sweeping views of the nearby forested valleys and the distant Rockies.

The approach to Left Hand Rock from Lily Lake is straightforward, following well-maintained trails that wind through stands of pine and aspen. The well-marked paths keep the trek pleasant underfoot with only moderate elevation changes before reaching the base of the climb. Once on the rock, the sun’s trajectory favors morning climbs, casting ideal light on the slab without baking it too harshly. Late summer and early fall provide especially agreeable conditions, tempering Colorado’s variable mountain temperatures.

Triceratops suits climbers comfortable with slab and crack climbing who appreciate routes that reward technique over brute force. Its blend of moderate grading, bolted safety, and natural gear opportunities makes it a favored choice for transitioning climbers wanting to build confidence on slab terrain. Prepping with sticky-soled shoes designed for friction and steady hydration is advisable—despite the seemingly gentle angle, the mental game here is real.

Descending is hassle-free with a straightforward double rope rappel from the top anchor back to the base, but climbers should double-check their rappel setups and keep an eye out for loose rock around the anchors. Overall, this route balances a sensory connection with the rock’s subtle textures, the crisp mountain air, and the satisfying challenge of dabbing out moves that require both finesse and courage, making Triceratops a memorable part of any Colorado climbing itinerary.

Climber Safety

Watch for the runout between the second and third bolts—this section can lead to a longer than expected fall if protection is not supplemented with trad gear. Loose rock occasionally gathers near the top bolts; inspect anchors carefully before setting your rappel.

Route Details

TypeTrad, Sport
Pitches1
Length80 feet

Local Tips

Approach early to avoid rock overheating; morning light highlights the slab best.

Bring sticky-soled shoes designed for slab climbing to maximize friction.

Consider carrying small cams (C3, C4 sizes) for additional protection between widely spaced bolts.

Double-check rappel anchors before descent as loose rock can accumulate around bolts.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.8- PG13
Quality
Consensus:The 5.8- rating feels solid mainly due to the challenging bulge near the top. While most of the climb stays around 5.6 to 5.7, that crux move demands precise footwork and a confident reach. Compared to other local slab routes, Triceratops is accessible yet rewarding, with a crux that briefly ramps up the effort without becoming overwhelming.

Gear Requirements

Five bolts anchor the route with some spacing gaps, especially between the second and third bolt where runners can supplement protection with small C4 or C3 cams. Two bolts at the top form a secure anchor with twist-links for rappelling.

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Tags

slab
crack
single pitch
bolted
trad gear
exposed
Colorado
Estes Park