HomeClimbingLeaning Tower

Leaning Tower Trad Climb in Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park, Colorado USA
trad crack
dihedral
alpine trad
high altitude
hand-size cams
multi-pitch
Length: ft
Type: Trad, Alpine
Stars
Pitches
3
Location
Leaning Tower
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Leaning Tower offers a classic alpine trad experience high in Rocky Mountain National Park. This right-facing dihedral challenges climbers with sustained 5.9 jams across three pitches, blending physical commitment with striking alpine vistas and a poignant backstory."

Leaning Tower Trad Climb in Rocky Mountain National Park

Leaning Tower rises from the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park with a bold right-facing dihedral that beckons climbers to test their mettle. This alpine trad route offers three pitches that thread through cracks and jams, demanding steady hands and a focused mind. The route’s history is as poignant as the climb itself, first spotted from the nearby Flying Buttress in the late ’70s and first led in the ’80s by a pair whose ascent was etched deeply by determination and the personal trials they carried alongside their ropes.

The approach is a serious but rewarding commitment — expect a haul that winds through subalpine forests and rocky talus, governed by the thin air of Colorado’s high country around 12,000 feet. The atmosphere here sharpens your senses: the crisp mountain air whispers through pines while distant peaks stand as watchful guardians. Once at the base, the distinctive dihedral invites you upward with a sequence of jam cracks that feel secure yet require precise footwork and balance.

Pitch one cruises up sustained 5.9 cracks that demand attention but reward with solid hand jams and consistent pro placements. The rock feels alive, almost guiding your hands into the perfect holds. Pitch two extends the challenge, holding the same grade but trending subtly upward in technical demands. For many, this will be the crux both physically and mentally, especially at altitude. The final pitch—a slightly easier pitch that finishes the route—offers a breather and a chance to savor the expansive alpine views before rappelling or walking off through alpine terrain.

Protection is straightforward but must be carefully considered. A traditional rack stocked with multiple hand-sized cams and nuts will cover the range of jams. The dihedral’s features provide excellent opportunities for secure placements, although some placements might require trimming or extra patience to ensure solid gear in this alpine environment.

Despite the challenges, Leaning Tower has something beyond the physical puzzle — it’s a place where the past and present meet, where the mountain pushes climbers not just vertically but into deeper respect for the fragile balance of human will and nature’s imposing presence. For those who seek a grounded alpine trad climb that rewards focus, endurance, and reverence for the high country, this route is a quiet gem tucked into the grandeur of Colorado’s wilderness.

Prepare for rapidly shifting weather common to the Rockies—early starts with ample hydration are critical. The route sees limited traffic, so planning your logistics carefully is advised to avoid surprises in case of changes. Solid footwork and comfortable footwear will make navigating the rock and approach safer and more enjoyable. Whether you’re drawn by the climbing or by the echo of history traced in its ledges, Leaning Tower is a climb that lingers in memory long after the final rap.

Climber Safety

Altitude can affect stamina and breathing—pace yourself accordingly and be prepared for sudden weather shifts. The approach involves talus and uneven terrain, so stable footing and careful movement are essential. The pro placements are good but require attention; don’t rush gear placements especially when lead climbing at high elevation.

Route Details

TypeTrad, Alpine
Pitches3
Length feet

Local Tips

Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common at high altitude.

Carry enough water to stay hydrated throughout the long approach and climb.

Wear sturdy, well-fitting climbing shoes suitable for crack climbing.

Check weather forecasts closely; conditions can change quickly above treeline.

Route Rating

Difficulty
5.9
Quality
Consensus:The 5.9 rating on Leaning Tower is well-earned with sustained crack climbing across three pitches. At altitude, the grade holds a solid challenge but doesn’t overstate difficulty. Expect consistent jams requiring technical footwork rather than brute strength. This route compares well with other trad classics in RMNP but feels more sustained than some shorter sport routes nearby.

Gear Requirements

Bring a standard trad rack focused on hand-sized cams and nuts. The dihedral offers reliable jams and placements, but careful gear assessment is important to secure protection in this alpine setting.

Share Your Ascent

Upload your photos of Leaning Tower and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.

Tags

trad crack
dihedral
alpine trad
high altitude
hand-size cams
multi-pitch