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Details

Rock Climbing · Glenwood Springs, CO

Surgery Buttress

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

Before you go

Live · nearest station Glenwood Springs, 2 mi
Good to go

Good window today. Daylight to 8:13 pm.

96°

Mostly Cloudy

Feels like 96°

Storm chance

3% afternoon

Wind

10 mph W

UV index

5.8 moderate

Sun window

6:16 am to 8:13 pm

Roaring Fork at Glenwood Springs is running 550 cfs, water 63°.

Distance

Elevation gain

56ft

High point

7,520ft

Season

Jan - Dec

About

Surgery Buttress is a rock climbing destination in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, situated on the Western Slope at an elevation of 7,437 feet. The site offers a collection of single-pitch sport routes bolted into the rock face, ranging in difficulty from 5.9+ to 5.12a. The routes are generally short, with lengths between 40 and 80 feet, making them suitable for a committed half-day climb. Access is straightforward with parking available on-site, and the area permits pets. The climbing season extends year-round, allowing access from January through December. Specific routes include Smooth Operator (5.10d), Special Gift for Girls (5.12a), and The Knife (5.12a). The terrain is described as having a technical character with big moves and solid holds, though some sections may appear chossy. The difficulty context for the area is classified as difficult, requiring physical and technical preparation from climbers.

Trail profile

Gain

56 ft

Avg grade

Steepest

High point

7,520 ft

Good to know

Parking at the trailhead

Dogs allowed on leash

Waypoints

1Approach Start7,464 ft
2Climbing Route7,520 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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