Skip to main content

Elk Fire · Evacuation orders in effect. If your zone is set to Evacuate, leave now.

Details

Rock Climbing · Rifle, CO

Master Chief

difficultFeaturedSpring climbing conditions. Route may be wet after rainfall. Check weather forecast before climbing.
Directions

Before you go

Live · nearest station Glenwood Springs, 24 mi
Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 8:14 pm.

94°

Partly Sunny

Feels like 94°

Wind

5 mph W

UV index

6.6 high

Sun window

6:18 am to 8:14 pm

Distance

Elevation gain

722ft

High point

7,287ft

Season

Jan - Dec

About

Master Chief is a difficult rock climbing route located in Rifle Mountain Park, near Rifle, Colorado. The area sits at an elevation of 7,287 feet and features limestone sport climbing on the Leadville Formation. The rock is characterized by pockets, tufa, and crimps, with routes that range from slightly overhanging to very steep. Climbers frequently note that the specific style of the holds and the overhang make routes in Rifle feel one to two grades harder than similar climbs elsewhere. The site offers parking and allows pets. Access is available year-round, with day passes costing $10. The concentration of hard sport routes, particularly in the 5.12 to 5.14 range, makes this a destination for experienced climbers seeking endurance challenges on quality stone.

Trail profile

Gain

722 ft

Avg grade

Steepest

High point

7,287 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Approach Start7,287 ft
2Climbing Route6,565 ft

Latest trail reportgood

Spring climbing conditions. Route may be wet after rainfall. Check weather forecast before climbing.

Reported Mar 3, 2025Verified

What people say

Reviews

No reviews yet

Been here? Help the next person out.

Within 30 miles

Nearby spots