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Details

Rock Climbing · Rifle, CO

Choss Temple Pilots

difficultFeaturedSpring climbing conditions. Route may be wet after rainfall. Check weather forecast before climbing.
Directions

Before you go

Live · nearest station Glenwood Springs, 23 mi
Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 8:14 pm.

96°

Mostly Cloudy

Feels like 96°

Storm chance

6% afternoon

Wind

10 mph W

UV index

3.6 moderate

Sun window

6:18 am to 8:14 pm

Distance

Elevation gain

High point

5,909ft

Season

Jan - Dec

About

Choss Temple Pilots is a sport climbing route located in Rifle Mountain Park on the Western Slope of Colorado. The crag sits at an elevation of 5,897 feet near the town of Rifle. The route is classified as difficult and features a compact line on the south face of Surprising Crag. Climbers access the wall by scrambling up a steep dirt slope from a bench at the base. The rock is described as brown and aesthetic, offering big holds and crack-type features. The climb ends beneath a deep V in an upper roof band. Protection requires approximately 10 to 12 quickdraws, indicating a sport climbing style. The area is open year-round and provides parking for vehicles. Pets are permitted on the site. Morning sun warms the wall during colder months.

Trail profile

Gain

Avg grade

Steepest

High point

5,909 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Approach Start5,909 ft
2Climbing Route5,909 ft

Latest trail reportgood

Spring climbing conditions. Route may be wet after rainfall. Check weather forecast before climbing.

Reported Mar 3, 2025Verified

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