Petit Grepon

Alpine Rock Climbing

South Face (5.8, III)

This narrow spire towering above the aesthetic Sky Pond hosts an incredible alpine rock climbing route ascending 8 pitches of cracks and face climbing. The South Face of the Petit Grepon is listed as one of the 50 Favorite Climbs in North America in the Steve Roper and Allen Steck’s classic climber’s ticklist book and is still considered on the premier rock climbing routes in Rocky Mountain National Park. The great position, moderate grade and storied history makes the South Face of the Petit Grepon a climb not to be missed! The route culminates on the exposed summit of the Petit Grepon, with sweeping views of the Sharkstooth and Taylor Peak.

Southwest Corner (5.9, III)

Slightly more challenging than its neighbor, the Southwest Corner offers similarly awesome views and fantastic movement with less crowding. This is another classic route with solid rock quality, great positioning and also tops out on the same narrow spire of the Petit Grepon. It is a great option for climbers up for a bit more technical difficulty and wanting a route more to themselves.

Adjacent peaks above Sky Pond and in the nearby Glacier Gorge are home to numerous other classic alpine rock climbing routes. From moderate introductions to alpine climbing and challenging, sustained rock climbing objectives there are limitless options to consider for your guided alpine climbing trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. We recommend the following routes as standout, high quality routes not to be missed:

North Ridge, Spearhead (5.6, III)
Northeast Ridge, Sharkstooth (5.6, III)
Southwest Corner, Saber (5.10, III)
The Barb, Spearhead (5.10, III)

Alpine climbing in Glacier Gorge is best from mid-June through late August.

All routes on the Petit Grepon and nearby peaks require previous multi-pitch rock climbing experience.

Denver International Airport is located 1.5 hours from the town of Estes Park and is the best option for flying in. A rental or personal vehicle is required as many trailheads are spread out and in remote areas.

Estes Park is the entry way for RMNP and as a tourist destination there are multiple hotels to choose from. You may choose to stay in Boulder (45 minutes away), where you can combine days of rock climbing to your itinerary as well.