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Details

Rock Climbing · Rifle, CO

Forgotten Years

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.

79°

Smoky

Feels like 79°

Wind

5 mph SSE

UV index

5.6 moderate

Sun window

6:18 am to 8:14 pm

Distance

Elevation gain

73ft

High point

5,351ft

Season

Jan - Dec

About

Forgotten Years is a sport climbing route located in Skull Cave within Rifle Mountain Park, west of Denver. The area features limestone walls from the Leadville formation, characterized by large flat holds, pockets, crimps, and pinches. The route itself is graded 5.11d and is noted for lacking pre-hung draws, which adds technical difficulty compared to other cave routes. Climbers have recorded sends and onsights on this line, indicating its quality despite being less crowded than major walls like the Anti-Phil Wall or The Arsenal. The climbing area is accessible year-round, though it experiences higher traffic on weekends between May and September. Elevation at the climbing zone is approximately 5,278 to 7,085 feet. Parking is available on site, and pets are permitted. The rock quality varies by aspect, with some areas prone to silt and moss buildup that can affect footholds. The route is suitable for experienced climbers seeking challenging endurance climbs.

Trail profile

Gain

73 ft

Avg grade

Steepest

High point

5,351 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Approach Start5,278 ft
2Climbing Route5,351 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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