Embarking on the Bag O Stones route means committing to a relentless, high-alpine traverse through some of Colorado’s most rugged granite giants. This 11,000-foot journey stitches together five of the Crestone summits via bold, technical lines — Ellingwood Arete, the Prow, and challenging scrambles in between. The experience demands not only physical endurance but sharp route-finding skills, as large sections involve exposed downclimbing, boulder hopping, and negotiating unstable scree slopes. The terrain rarely offers a chance to relax; instead, every move requires caution and focus.

Starting at Crestone Needle, climbers gain the summit by tackling the iconic Ellingwood Arete, a classic 5.8 crack-and-arete climb that demands both precision and confidence on the rock. From here, the route presses north to Crestone Peak’s West summit, transitioning into loose and ledgy downclimbing through the North Couloir. Careful navigation along 4th-class terrain leads into a scree gully, where quick feet and nimble balance are essential to avoid wasting energy or time.

The technical crux arrives at Kit Carson via the Prow, a steep, exposed section that tests your trad skills and mental focus. This pitch, rated 5.8, is the gateway to the most delicate moments of the day. Climbers stash their heavier gear before tagging Challenger Peak — a short, unprotected scramble along the west face or a less exposed southern approach. From here, the final push up Humboldt Peak’s Bear’s Playground is a demanding ascent of loose rock and scree, requiring solid footing and patience.

Completing this linkup in a single day is a rare and rewarding achievement, best suited to seasoned alpinists comfortable with sustained effort and navigating complex terrain efficiently. The route is remote and unforgiving, so solo endeavors demand thorough preparation and respect for the shifting mood of the mountain. Expect long hours, with a finished time typically around 12 hours from trailhead to trailhead.

Practical gear advice centers on a light, efficient rack: think a modest selection of cams such as C3s, a handful of link cams, a couple of tibloc ascenders, and a 60m rope to maximize rope management on technical sections. Reliable rock shoes and chalk will help maintain grip on the varied crack systems and slabs. Hydration and nutrition carry extra weight but are critical to keep energy steady on this high-stakes traverse.

This route offers a potent blend of technical crack climbing, alpine scrambling, and endurance racing across some of the Sangre de Cristo Range’s tallest peaks. The raw granite rises sharply out of subalpine forests, while gusting winds and shifting clouds heighten the sensation of dancing on a knife’s edge. For those drawn to multi-pitch alpine challenges rich in both rock and route-finding, Bag O Stones delivers an indelible test and unforgettable ascent.