"Prow Finish wraps up the Northwest Corner on The Bastille with a bold, gear-dependent pitch that challenges your route-finding and trust in marginal protection. Expect an airy prow climb with strategic placements and a rewarding belay above Eldorado Canyon’s rugged walls."
Prow Finish offers climbers a straightforward yet demanding conclusion to the iconic Northwest Corner route on The Bastille’s north face, within Eldorado Canyon State Park, Colorado. This single-pitch traditional climb stretches roughly 100 feet, delivering a raw and authentic experience where the rock commands respect and careful judgment. As you move from the top of the Northwest Corner to the sloping belay ledge, the climb takes you upward along a narrow prow. The route demands keen route-finding skills, as pro placements are sparse and often subtle—anticipate some runouts and fewer than ideal protection positions. Chalk is absent here, leaving each hold fresh and challenging, forcing climbers to rely on sheer technique and confidence.
The rock feels solid but offers a relentless test of commitment as you edge along the prow, searching for cracks and constrictions where your gear might hold. Expect to place protection ranging from small cams to a #3 Camalot, with occasional pockets for nuts, but be prepared for sections where protection is minimal and trusting your footwork becomes essential. Belaying from the top of The Bastille wraps the climb with spectacular views of Eldorado’s walls and surrounding foothills, grounding you in one of Colorado’s premier traditional climbing areas.
The approach to this finish is straightforward but requires awareness of Eldorado’s busy trail network and preservation efforts; early starts help beat the crowds. Climbers will want a solid standard rack to cover the full range of placements. Since no fixed anchors mark the top, it’s critical to build a strong belay stance on stable ledges and to double-check all gear anchors before committing to the rappel or walk-off.
This route is perfect for climbers seeking a direct, low-key ascent that emphasizes traditional ethics and engagement with the rock. It complements the Northwest Corner’s more classical moves by providing a fresh finish that feels both adventurous and disciplined. With careful planning and a steady hand, Prow Finish rewards with a pure line and the satisfaction of climbing a clean, natural prow on one of Eldorado’s best-known formations.
Protection is limited and unevenly spaced; exercise caution on runout sections and ensure your rack is sufficient to build reliable anchors atop the climb. The approach includes some rocky, uneven terrain—watch footing, especially during descent.
Start early to avoid afternoon crowds and secure parking near the main trailhead.
Carry a #3 Camalot and a range of small to medium cams for optimal protection variety.
Be ready for limited chalk; rely on clean handholds and precise footwork.
Double-check your belay set-up at the top—there are no fixed anchors.
Standard traditional rack up to a #3 Camalot is essential here, given the runout sections. No fixed gear or anchors means you'll rely entirely on your placements and natural features for protection.
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