Poudre Canyon Climbing

Poudre Canyon lies up CO Highway 14, just north of Fort Collins. The rock is made up of granite, gneiss, and [schist] which results in a wide range of rock quality - solid granite to complete choss (bring a helmet). Roadside lines are mostly sport or mixed routes, but there are some quality trad lines as well. For those willing to carry their pack in for a ways (about 3 miles), Grey Rock offers some great climbs on solid granite with a true summit, great views, and a typically quiet setting. Many/most of the lines up the canyon and at Grey Rock were developed by Craig Luebben. Some obvious roadside bouldering exists up the canyon. For more options, ask a local or do some exploring.

Small 'mom and pop' stores are scattered up the canyon. Many are only open during the summer months. I like to support the Rustic Resort located in Rustic for grub and suds. It's one of the few places open in the winter. Camping is mostly limited to developed campgrounds that get a lot of traffic in the summer. Higher up the canyon towards Cameron Pass more primitive camping opportunities can be found, but that's pretty far from the climbs. I'd suggest making a day trip and then drinking some fine micro-brews in Fort Collins.

Edited to add: HughC notes that many of the routes in Poudre Canyon are bolted in an "old school" style and may present more risk than climbers accustomed to more modern sport routes may expect. As with any climbing situation or route, climbers should carefully evaluate the conditions of the route, fixed gear, themselves, and the environment before committing to a climb.