Red Rock Canyon

Half-Day and Full-Day Colorado Rock Climb

The cliffs that wall Red Rock Canyon’s flanks form a marvelous climbing area. The largest rock climbing park in the Pike’s Peak region, Red Rock Canyon contains over 100 routes that are similar to those in neighboring Garden of the Gods to the north. FRCC has been crucial to the development of Red Rock Canyon, establishing 80% of the routes!

Most of the routes at Red Rock Canyon are bolted sport climbs, with only a few requiring cams and nuts. While it is best to climb routes without the use of protection bolts whenever possible, the crackless nature of Red Rock Canyon’s sandstone requires the extensive use of expansion bolts to protect its routes.

Each of the routes end at bolt anchors equipped with lowering rings or chains that are well below the cliff-top. Cliff-top environments are extremely sensitive to human use and have lots of loose blocks and boulders. The climbing management plan at Red Rock Canyon requires all routes to end below the cliff-top to protect the delicate environments above and to avoid knocking rocks onto people climbing or hiking below.

Intermediate Climbing Technique Class

For the intermediate class, prior climbing experience is HIGHLY recommended. If you do not have climbing experience, please call the office to discuss options that may be a better fit for you.

What to Bring

• Water FRCC highly recommends bringing 2 quarts (2-3 liters) of water.
• Food (snacks/lunch) Along with the water, keeping your body fueled throughout your trip will let you focus on climbing and not you:r stomach. Food a simple as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to high-tech energy bars will keep you going throughout your trip.
• Small backpack: A small backpack allows you to carry your food, water, and other items you need for the day. A backpack versus a handbag lets you freely use your hands while moving around the climbing areas.
• Sneakers/Approach Shoes/Chaco Sandals ™: Most of the climbing areas require a slight hike from the parking area to reach your climbs. FRCC suggests a pair of sturdy sneakers, approach shoes, or Chacos™ to safely get you to the climbs. You can call our office or ask your guide if your footwear is appropriate for your climbing destination.
• Sunscreen: The sun can be intense at all of our climbing locations. FRCC recommends bringing sunscreen to prevent sunburns and other potential sun related issues.
• Sunglasses [optional]: Sunglasses  help protect your eyes from the sun throughout the day.
• Camera [optional]: Pictures help you remember your trip. If you have a camera, bring it along and snap away.
• Rain jacket: Summer thunderstorms can occur at any time in Colorado. A light rain jacket will keep you dry in the event of rain.