Orange Peel

About

Orange Peel is a difficult, single-pitch traditional rock climb located in Cracked Canyon near Telluride on the Western Slope. Situated at an elevation of 12,408 feet, the route measures approximately 80 feet and was first ascended in 1973 by Bill Kees and Jack Kaufman. The climb is one of the most popular in Cracked Canyon, positioned just uphill from Tobacco Road and directly across from the route Chewbacca. Access requires navigating a steep, loose canyon floor with scree and boulders, which can be challenging for dogs. The approach leads to an eye-catching hand and finger crack on the left side of the canyon wall. Climbers start up steep jugs with rests before reaching a crux section about 50 feet up. The crux consists of an 8-foot finger crack where jugs and good feet run out, requiring yellow and orange Metolius pieces or blue Camalot cams. A bolted anchor is located roughly 30 feet above the crux on a ledge. Parking is available nearby, and the area is pet-friendly despite the rocky approach. The route offers varying conditions throughout the year, with potential snow and ice in winter and warmer temperatures in summer. The total outing typically lasts around 4 hours.