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Details

Rock Climbing · Fruita, CO

Oliver Perry Smith Buttress

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

Before you go

Live · nearest station Grand Junction, 10 mi
Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 8:17 pm.

76°

Smoky

Feels like 76°

Wind

5 mph ESE

UV index

2.6 low

Sun window

6:22 am to 8:17 pm

Distance

Elevation gain

7ft

High point

4,587ft

Season

Jan - Dec

About

The Oliver Perry Smith Buttress is a rock climbing destination located in Fruita, Colorado, within the Colorado National Monument. It sits on the first bank of cliffs near the Monument's West entrance kiosk. The primary route is a 250-foot, 2-pitch trad climb rated 5.10d. The climb features chunky, perfect chocolate limestone with wide cracks, strenuous laybacking, and thrutching. The crux is on the second pitch, which involves more wideness and ends without an anchor; climbers must walk off down a descent gully or sling a skinny tree. Parking is available, and pets are allowed. The area is accessible year-round, though conditions vary. Typical visits take about 5 hours. Elevation is listed as 4,580 feet in some sources, though one source cites 8,421 feet; the lower figure aligns with the Fruita area's general elevation profile.

Trail profile

Gain

7 ft

Avg grade

Steepest

High point

4,587 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Approach Start4,580 ft
2Pitch 14,580 ft
3Pitch 24,580 ft
4Route Top Out4,587 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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