Don't Feed the Beast

About

Don't Feed the Beast is a single-pitch trad climbing route located in the Devil's Kitchen area of Colorado National Monument, near Grand Junction. The climb features a mix of low-key scrambling, delicate sandstone movement, and exposed face moves. The approach involves a scramble from the roadside through debris-laden terrain to the base of a tower. The route begins with a 25-foot handcrack section filled with blocks and rubbly rock. Climbers then traverse to a saddle between towers, where they can optionally scramble to an adjacent outside tower for exposure before returning to the main pitch. The crux is a committing, runout sequence of face moves requiring precise footwork and steady nerves. Protection requires a typical desert rack of cams and nuts, and a single 70-meter rope is sufficient. The top anchor is described as sketchy, requiring caution. Descent is via rappel, though climbers should double-check setups. The area offers ochre sandstone formations that warm in the sun. Parking is available near the trailhead. The site is pet friendly. Climbers should plan for variable conditions and bring appropriate gear for sandstone cracks and edges.