The rugged nature of Colorado high-country spots like Winter Park is conducive to all types of outdoor recreation. There are few better ways to experience the wilds of Winter Park than on a rock climbing excursion. When staying in one of our Winter Park rentals, there’s plenty of nearby places to go rock climbing. Read on below to find out more about rock climbing in Colorado’s Winter Park area!
Take on Colorado’s High Country
Surprisingly, Winter Park and the Grand County area are considered hidden gems among the rock climbing community because their best climbing spots are often tucked away, leading them to become less populated than other famous Colorado rock climbing spots. Additionally, the most predominant local rock type, gneiss, makes for varied climbing conditions.
Try your hand at climbing in Hurd Creek, situated between Winter Park and Granby. Hurd Creek has climbs that are anywhere from thirty to sixty feet long throughout its Upper Cliff, Lower Cliff, and First Cliff. The difficulty levels here are diverse and depend on which route you decide to take, with around thirty single-pitch sport tours created by locals.
The Indian Peaks Wilderness Area is another great place to go rock climbing close to Winter Park. In particular, Apache Peak is well-known for its rock climbing terrain, being the second-tallest peak in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, located directly on the Continental Divide, and reaching over thirteen thousand feet in elevation. Another popular climbing route in the wilderness area is the Kasparov Traverse, which takes rock climbers along the north face of Apache Peak by way of Pawnee Pass, then a ridge from Shoshoni Peak, with rock towers along the way famously called the Cheesemen.
Of course, what’s rock climbing without climbing inside of Rocky Mountain National Park? Access this incredible park from Grand Lake just a short drive from Winter Park and you’ll encounter stark peaks, granite rock formations, easy bouldering, and intimidating crags. Some of the park’s most popular spots include places like Long’s Peak and Lumpy Ridge. However, there are a variety of climbs throughout the park, with the majority of climbs requiring more time (Grade III to V). If you’re interested in planning a multi-day climb, you may need a bivouac permit.
Related Links
Indian Peaks Wilderness Area | Nature & Wildlife Journey | Arrow Luxury Townhome #290
Winter Park Escapes – Your Gateway to Adventure
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