Cracked Open Sky

About

Cracked Open Sky is a rock climbing area located in Rifle Mountain Park on the Western Slope of Colorado, near the town of Rifle. The site is situated within the Skull Cave sector of the park. It is rated as difficult, indicating routes require technical skill and endurance, consistent with Rifle's reputation for high-quality limestone sport climbing that often features 5.12 grades and higher. The climbing terrain includes overhanging sections with holds described as pockets, crimps, and pinches. Practical access details include available parking and a pet-friendly policy. The elevation is listed as 5,766 feet in the database, though web sources for the broader Rifle Mountain Park area cite elevations around 7,085 feet; climbers should verify specific route elevations. The area is accessible year-round. Rifle Mountain Park is a known destination for rock climbing, established as a park in 1921. The climbing is concentrated on limestone of the Leadville formation. The area can be crowded on weekends, particularly between May and September. Amenities include parking.