Trust You Must stands as a sharp test of commitment on Promontory Ridge, tucked within Golden Gate Canyon State Park near Golden, Colorado. This single-pitch, 65-foot trad route demands climbers embrace exposure and trust their skills from the ground up. The climb opens with an immediately challenging section where protection is scarce and the moves require precise body positioning and calm nerves. For the first 25 feet, gear placements are few and tricky, leaving climbers to rely heavily on balance and technique while navigating clenched edges and generous jugs that offer handholds but little security.

The climb's 5.9- R rating reflects this tension — the difficulty is not just technical but mental. Without bolts or fixed anchors, climbers place natural gear in a tight crack system that can be fiddly, requiring sharp eyes and a flexible rack. This isn't a climb for beginners looking for straightforward protection; it demands preparation in crack climbing and an understanding of risk management on traditional routes.

Promontory Ridge itself is a rugged feature perched within the broader expanse of Golden Gate Canyon State Park. The approach traverses open pine-scented slopes, with the ridge offering striking views of the surrounding foothills and the distant front range peaks. The sun hits the rock from late morning through the afternoon, making spring through early fall the best seasons for a dry, warm ascent. A light breeze often moves through the ridge, carrying the crisp mountain air and the distant calls of local wildlife.

Gear up with a comprehensive rack of cams and nuts in smaller to medium sizes; larger pieces won’t fit in the narrow crack, and the lack of fixed anchors means you must be ready to build a solid trad anchor at the top. Rappelling is possible but requires careful setup since no fixed anchors exist—double-check placements before committing. For those eyeing this route, approach with respect, focus, and a steady hand. Trust Yourself as you Trust You Must.

This climb rewards those eager to sharpen both physical and mental climbing skills, offering a pure trad experience without modern shortcuts. It’s an invitation to stand tall on a classic Colorado ridge and engage directly with the rock’s subtle personality.