Rock Climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park



Season
Spring to fall
Nearest city
Estes Park, CO
Duration
1 day
Skill level
Beginner to advanced
Rocky Mountain National Park crags are truly legendary
Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) attracts climbers from all over the world for some of the best climbing on the Front Range. It’s easy to see why. RMNP is home to a famous 14er, Longs Peak, the tallest mountain in the park coming in at 14,259 feet. You’ll also find some of the most beautiful and engaging routes in the U.S. It’s true high-alpine climbing at Rocky — some climbs start at 12,000 feet! An early start and a certified guide by your side, the long approaches result in huge payoff when you gaze up at the magnificent alpine rock towering above you.
Quote
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to 4000m peaks, one of the highest paved roads in North America (Trail Ridge Road), and some of the best alpine rock anywhere.
By Rob Coppolillo — Certified AMGA/IFMGA Rock, Alpine, and Ski guide
Most Popular Itineraries
A Customized Full Day of Private Climbing With a Guide
Perfect your top-rope climbing experience by taking your climbing to the next level. This class can be used to prepare you for longer multi-pitch climbs in Rocky Mountain National Park and beyond. Develop skills including lead belaying, rope management, protection removal, anchors and rappelling.
Multi-pitch Rock Climbing Day
You’ll enjoy this Rocky Mountain National Park multi-pitch climbing option for a full day of rock climbing – far off the deck. Spend the day climbing longer routes in places near Estes Park or on the famous Lumpy Ridge. Experience a gorgeous climb and incredible views of the formations below.
Alpine Climbing in RMNP
Prepare to gain increasingly impressive vistas of the Rocky Mountain National Park’s topography, including the Continental Divide. Tackle alpine routes such as Hallett, Sharkstooth or Spearhead. The complex navigation is made much easier and safer when accompanied by an expert guide.
Things you need to know
Why should I book with 57hours?
With us, it’s all play and no work for you! 57hours is an open platform that connects you with trained and certified outdoor adventure professionals all over the world. Using our tech-savvy, we make it super easy to find and book adventures worth tackling, with guides worth booking, all gathered from the first-hand experiences of the locals who adventure in these amazing locations.
Why should I go rock climbing?
Rock climbing is more than just a sport; it’s problem solving on-the-go. It’s a balance of intuition and fluidity of movement. The fun comes from the possibilities — each route with a variety of options and only a fraction of them leading to success. When you finally master a climb, after hours of practice, it transcends mere sport and is akin to art.
What’s included?
What you get in this adventure:
- An experienced, local rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
- Full day of rock climbing each day (depending on your chosen itinerary)
- All technical climbing gear
- Day park fee
What’s not included:
- Transportation
- Food
- Lodging
Technical gear list
All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:
- Helmet
- Harness with a locking carabiner, belay and rappel devices, and chalk bag
- Ropes
- Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)
What do I need to bring?
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
- Water bottle
- Food you can eat on-the-go
- Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
- Sunglasses
- Camera — optional
- Rock shoes (can be rented, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
What if I’ve never climbed before?
No prior experience is necessary. Whether you’ve never donned a harness or you’re a seasoned climber, a guide will help you meet your individual objectives. Above all, your instructor’s number one priority is your safety.
What does a typical day look like?
Your exact itinerary will depend on your chosen adventure. Full days of multi-pitch and alpine climbing will start earlier and end later. Here is what a typical full day out looks like:
- 8:30am: Meet your guide at the guide’s recommended location
- 9:30am: Gear up and head to the cliffs
- 10:00am: Start climbing your objective for the day
- 12:30pm – 1:00pm: Lunch (bring snacks and plenty of water)
- 1:00pm to 5:00pm: Build upon techniques developed in the morning session and explore additional terrain as time allows
- 5:00pm: Call it a day and head home
How fit do I need to be?
If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. So don’t let your perceived lack of strength keep you away from rock climbing — you’ve got what it takes.
What is the minimum age requirement?
12 is the minimum age for guided climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park. If your group has climbers under the age of 18, let us know prior to booking and we will let you know the requirements.
What about group sizes and pricing?
Group sizes are usually between 1–3 people with one guide, but you can also go with a larger group of up to 6 people per guide. Climbing days can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.
Costs per person may decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.
What about bad weather?
As the saying goes, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad preparation.” You can expect your guides to be fully prepared for anything. Inclement weather can always get in the way of climbing, but your guide will know the best spots to move to if the weather takes a turn.
On the rare occasion of truly bad weather, your instructor will present you with suitable alternatives. The most common practice is to reschedule your climbing to a more favorable day or suitable location nearby, if it exists.
If no options presented were viable to you, you will be issued a full refund.
Cancellation policy
All policies regarding cancellation, rescheduling and trip insurance will be clearly laid out by your guide prior to booking your adventure. Contact us if you’d like more information on a specific adventure.
Getting there and meeting location
You will meet your guide at the climbing area’s parking lots. Your guide can lead the way to and from if needed.
Guides we recommend

Jesse Ramos
AMGA Certified Guide

Jayson Simons-Jones
IFMGA/AMGA Certified Guide
