Since the introduction of the bolting petition system, new lines have slowly been popping up in random, overlooked, and sometimes surprising places. Yielding neo classics right next to old classics. Tombraider was one of the first lines to lead the way, and it has set the bar for the next generation of routes very high. Arguably better than Cryptic Egyptian, and a little more difficult, Tombraider follows a challenging natural weakness out the right side of the Wicked Cave. With minimal glue, no chipped holds, and extremely fun climbing, this route is a great addition to the Rifle.
Tombraider follows the first four bolts of Cryptic Egyptian, before veering left at the first roof. Make a hard drive-by move to a huge jug, and rest up for the off-balance, 20-foot crux up a steep, blocky face ending with a lunge for the base of a massive flake. Throw in a kneebar, and once you are recovered, continue over the final bulge, navigating a finicky sequence of gastons, underclings, sidepulls, and small crimpers that lead to the top of the wall.
RSS Feed
