Rising above the high reaches of the Elk Mountains, the Chimneys of Treasure offers a genuine sense of adventure that few climbing destinations in Colorado—or anywhere else—can match. Here, at an air-thin elevation of 12,820 feet, climbers find themselves among an inspiring array of jagged alpine spires. These formations, shooting skyward between 50 and 300 feet, feel ancient and untouched, promising not just climbs but true exploration.

Every step toward the Chimneys is a reminder: this is no roadside crag. Access is a puzzle for those with a map, a compass, and a hunger for backcountry adventure. The remoteness and seclusion here give every ascent a heightened sense of accomplishment. The approach—best plotted via the Skyline Mine road/trail to respect sensitive property issues—winds through rugged country, inviting visitors to match the resourcefulness of those who pioneered these summits decades ago.

Long regarded as an outdoor classroom by organizations like Outward Bound, the Chimneys of Treasure have seen climbers atop their spires for more than forty years. Yet the place remains pristine, thanks to a deep culture of stewardship and discretion. If you visit, you join a tradition that values minimal impact, clean climbing, and respect for both the land and local landowners.

The routes themselves are, in many ways, the definition of quality alpine climbing. Expect surprisingly solid rock—something not always guaranteed at these altitudes in Colorado. Moderate lines wind up sculpted faces and surprisingly splitter cracks, most notably on the Grand Chimney. These inviting fissures beg for creative jams, offering both accessibility for less-seasoned trad leaders and satisfying challenges for veterans. While the full ticklist here is still growing—with plenty left for potential first ascents—the established climbs like Donkey Ear (5.7, three and a half stars) are local legends for good reason. Donkey Ear embodies everything that draws climbers to these spires: engaging movement, stunning positions, and unforgettable summit views.

Standing alone among silent pines and windswept boulders, the spires offer moments of pure exposure. The weather at this elevation changes quickly—be ready for a bluebird morning that surrenders to afternoon squalls. Prime climbing season rolls from mid- to late-summer, when snowfields finally recede and the air is warmest, but swift storms are always a possibility.

These climbs are true alpine routes. Most are single-pitch, but the approach and descent demand mountain sense and efficiency. Protection is generally reliable, with good cracks for cams and stoppers; a standard Colorado alpine rack will handle most situations. The rewards for preparation? Towering summit vistas—rolling ranges to the horizon and a sense of wildness that’s become rare in our structured world.

If you’re drawn to the Chimneys, travel lightly, pack for changing weather, and leave the place better than you found it. The Elk Mountains demand respect but pay back in the kind of adventure that forges stories you’ll tell for years.