North American Classic Climbs

Kit Carson Peak

South Prow

Clearly visible from the summit of the more famous Crestone Needle, this climb is similar in nature, being comprised of a moderate and lengthy ridge on conglomerate rock. However, consensus among those who have done both routes has this as a much superior climb. More exposure, more challenge, more committment, and more quality climbing will be found on this exceptional ridgeline of excellent, highly climbable rock. A classic route that is yet to be discovered by the masses, it will probably remain uncrowded due to its relative inaccessibility. The traditional approach to this route is from the west up Spanish Creek, which crosses private property. Please be careful how you park and minimize your impact by not building fires so the land owner continues to allow this. Allow a full day for the approach, then climb the route the next morning and hike out, convinced that you've just had about as much fun as is legal in most states.

Type:

Alpine Rock

Seriousness:

Location:

Sangre de Cristo Range, Colorado, USA

References:

G3

Rating:

III 5.8

Route Descriptions & Maps:

First Ascent:

unknown

Trip Reports:

Halladay 7/04
Wright 6/03
Clark 7/01