Sharkstooth stands as a striking spire within the famous Cathedral Spires cluster in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. Sitting prominently at 12,630 feet, it shares company with its renowned sisters, Petit Grepon and Saber, offering climbers a rare alpine challenge shaped by rugged terrain and spectacular vistas. The approach alone tests your resolve — beginning at the Glacier Gorge trailhead, the route weaves through forested valleys and glacial runoff before confronting the infamous boulder-strewn Gash. You'll want to stay low in the valley, carefully following the trail’s best-kept secret paths rather than the obvious ones that veer upwards toward Andrew’s Glacier. Missing this detail means battling a tougher field of boulders that can sap strength well before the first pitch.

Reaching the base of Sharkstooth requires about 3 to 4 miles of hiking from the trailhead, featuring a steady elevation gain that conditions from moderate to strenuous. After passing Loch Vale and navigating the subtle trail splits near Andrew’s Campground, the granite spire comes into full view—its vertical profiles promising reward for the prepared climber. As you scan the rock, the South Prow and Northeast Ridge stand out, two classic routes treasured by climbers for their clean lines and adventurous exposure, rated 5.7 and 5.6 respectively.

The climbing experience here is alpine in character — expect quality rock underfoot accompanied by breathtaking panoramas of the park’s soaring peaks and deep glacial valleys. The summit offers a rare vantage point to drink in everything Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer from above. Appropriately, descending is as technical as ascending. Since 2020, Sharkstooth features fixed rappel anchors designed for a single 70 meter rope, allowing climbers to safely descend in three rappel stages down to a class 3 downclimb known as the Gash. Cairns mark the way back to the rappel stations, a critical guide especially in the dimming light of late afternoon or early evening. Missing your last set of bolted anchors could leave you relying on older and less visible gear such as pitons and a chalkstone—but those are still secure, though less straightforward.

Because this peak resides within protected park boundaries, be mindful of seasonal closures. Raptors reclaim their nesting territories starting mid-February through July 31, and off-trail travel in these fragile habitat zones is restricted to protect local wildlife. Check the park’s official updates before planning your trip to avoid conflicts.

Sharkstooth’s climbing routes lean toward alpine trad, with a strong emphasis on route finding and solid protection placement. Given the terrain and approach challenges, climbers should be comfortable with exposed multi-pitch climbs and variable alpine conditions rather than expect gym-like stability. This is a place that rewards meticulous preparation, good route knowledge, and respect for the mountain environment.

The climbing season peaks in summer when weather is more predictable and snow has melted from the approach trails. Plan early starts to maximize stable conditions and avoid afternoon thunderstorms common at high altitude. The east-facing spires retain cool morning shade and bask in afternoon sun, offering a dynamic thermal range ideal for varied climbing preferences.

Visiting Sharkstooth is more than a climb. It’s a full alpine adventure, combining the grit of a demanding hike with the thrill of technical ascents on a landmark formation that defines the spirit of Rocky Mountain National Park’s vertical landscape. With classic lines like the Northeast Ridge and South Prow, combined with a descent system that reassures and challenges in equal measure, Sharkstooth invites climbers ready to embrace the raw, windy grandeur of alpine Colorado.

Prepare yourself with layered clothing, a solid pack for the variable mountain weather, and ensure you have the right rope length and protection for confident climbing and safe descent. The effort pays dividends in views, climbing quality, and a sense of accomplishment few other climbs can match within the park.