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GPS: 40.40474, -105.52958
Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views: 11,218 total · 40/month
Shared By: Brian Milhaupt on Apr 6, 2002 · Updates
Admins: Leo Paik, John McNamee, Frances Fierst, Monty, Monomaniac, Tyler KC
Warning Access Issue: 2024 Partial Seasonal Raptor Closures lifted 7/21/24 DetailsDrop down

Description Suggest change

This aptly named rock face sits below Batman rock, and is easily reached via the Batman rock trail. This is a good spot to climb if you don't have a full day. The approach is approximately half that of Batman Rock, and none of the climbs to my knowledge are longer than two pitches. The rock itself is split broken vertically by a chimney in the middle and horizontally by a ledge that spans the entire length about 2/3 up. The climbing is less than vertical, and even the cracks have a slab feel.

Getting There Suggest change

From the new parking lot, take the west trail towards the old Twin Owls parking lot ~0.6 miles. From the old Twin Owls parking lot, follow the approach trail for Batman Rock. After the trail starts to go up, start to look for a cairn on the left, which will take you to the left side of the base. Scramble down past the chimney, and back up the other side to the better routes. [When approaching the rock you will come upon the right side first.] Although the rock is 200' high, it is hard to see above the trees before you actually get there. ~40-50 minutes to approach.

Please check the closures before climbing.

Update: in 2019, Checkboard is closed for raptor nesting March 1 through July 31. These closures may be extended longer or rescinded at an earlier date depending on nesting activity. Click here for the Feb. 25, 2019 new release: https://www.nps.gov/romo/learn/news/temporary-closures-in-lumpy-ridge-area-to-protect-nesting-raptors-in-rocky-mountain-national-park.htm 

9 Total Climbs

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Location: Checkerboard Rock Change
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Classic Climbing Routes at Checkerboard Rock

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
5.10a/b 6a+ 19 VI+ 19 E2 5b R
 16
Rainy Day Woman
Trad 2 pitches
5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b
 9
Ziggie's Brother Hank
Trad, Sport
5.10b/c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b
 17
Checkerboard Crack
Trad 2 pitches
5.10d 6b+ 21 VII+ 21 E3 5b
 15
Ziggie's Day Out
Trad 2 pitches
Route Name Location Star Rating Difficulty Date
Rainy Day Woman
 16
5.10a/b 6a+ 19 VI+ 19 E2 5b R Trad 2 pitches
Ziggie's Brother Hank
 9
5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b Trad, Sport
Checkerboard Crack
 17
5.10b/c 6b 20 VII 20 E2 5b Trad 2 pitches
Ziggie's Day Out
 15
5.10d 6b+ 21 VII+ 21 E3 5b Trad 2 pitches
More Classic Climbs in Checkerboard Rock »

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