Top Roping at Duncan’s Ridge: Bolt Access
Hey everyone! My wife and I are hoping to get out to Duncan’s Ridge at Horsetooth for some outdoor climbing, and I wanted to ask a couple of questions before heading climbing.
I’ve done outdoor sport climbing and set up top-rope systems using the anchors after leading routes, but I’ve actually never set up a top-rope system by accessing the anchors from above. We’re hoping to climb in the 5.6–5.10 range and would like to find routes where we can hike around to the top and set up a top rope without having to lead the route first.
For those familiar with Duncan’s Ridge, how accessible are the bolted anchors at the top of these routes? Are there particular routes where getting to the anchors from above is straightforward, or does it vary significantly by route? I’m also curious whether the existing bolt and chain setups generally accommodate a straightforward top-rope setup or if certain routes require a different approach.
I want to be respectful of the local climbing community, established routes, and the rock itself, so I’d appreciate any advice. I’m not looking to take shortcuts with safety; I just want to understand the access and anchor setups before heading out.
Thanks for any advice! I appreciate the people who maintain and care for these areas, and I want to make sure we approach it the right way.