Head Full of Lead

About

Head Full of Lead is a sport climbing route located within Rifle Mountain Park, west of the city of Rifle on Colorado’s Western Slope. The route sits at an elevation of 5,557 feet on the left side of Ruckman Cave. It is a short 40-foot climb characterized by interesting and powerful underclings with no good rest. The climbing style is difficult, featuring a hard move near the anchors that requires caution due to potential falls. The route uses four bolts plus anchors, with a fifth bolt previously removed. Climbers can access the area via parking available in the park. The site is pet friendly and accessible year-round, with peak activity occurring from May through September when the area is fairly crowded. The limestone rock of the Leadville Formation here often makes routes feel one to two grades harder than they are due to overhanging angles and complex hold placements. The specific route was first ascended by Gray Ringsby.