Hail Hole

About

Hail Hole is a single-pitch sport climbing route located on the East Face of Gold Butte, near Aspen, Colorado. Situated at an elevation of 8,932 feet, the route offers moderate difficulty, typically graded around 5.8-. The climb features a clean line protected by five bolts leading to a shared anchor with the neighboring route, Flake Armor. Climbers use quickdraws for the bolts and benefit from fixed hardwear already in place. The approach to the crag involves a short drive on gravel roads from Aspen, with parking available off McLain Flats Road. The hike to the base is under 15 minutes, crossing mixed terrain that includes loose scree and talus. Solid footwear is recommended for the approach. The route faces south, catching light throughout the day and warming the holds, which supports year-round climbing from January through December. The climb balances technical moves with straightforward protection, making it suitable for climbers with some experience. Dogs are generally permitted in the Aspen climbing area, though specific restrictions may apply at Gold Butte depending on current management plans. The route is accessible via GPS coordinates 39.21561, -106.84358.