Starting 75 million years ago, a period of geologic uplift began forming the Rocky Mountains to their current elevation and rugged appearance. Two major glaciated events, the Bull Lake and Pinedale Glaciation Periods are responsible for carving out the U-shaped valleys that define many of the valleys in Rocky Mountain National Park, as opposed to tighter, V-shaped valleys commonly formed by rivers. These rugged mountains also served as landmarks for indigenous tribes, such as the Arapaho Tribe (Hinono’ei) who referred to Longs Peak and Mt. Meeker as neniis-otoyou-u, meaning “Two Guides” because the mountains distinct appearance helped guide the tribe through the plains below.

Today, tourists and climbers alike revel in the beauty and incredible alpine climbing terrain throughout the National Park. Skyward Mountaineering offers select guided alpine climbing in Rocky Mountain National Park, focusing on the highest quality routes and offering climbers a unique experience on the rugged peaks throughout the park. Combine an alpine climbing trip with prep days rock climbing in nearby Boulder, Colorado honing your movement and multipitch efficiency on classic routes.