The South East Face of Eisenhower Tower offers a distinctive alpine climbing experience amid the rugged limestone of the Canadian Rockies, situated within the vast wilderness of Banff National Park. This route begins at the Dragon's Back, a sharp, narrow buttress extending from the tower’s base that sets the stage for an exposed yet manageable ascent. Starting on the left side of this natural prow, climbers follow a short chimney and gully section roughly 5 to 10 meters in height to reach a bolted rappel anchor that marks the first technical milestone. From here, the route leads along the Dragon's Back itself, where granite-hard holds present an easy but distinctly airy ridge traverse that tests your focus as much as your moves. The narrow spine drops off steeply, creating a thrilling exposure that keeps the senses sharp.

Once reaching the base of the main southeast face, a small gap separates the Dragon's Back from the vertical wall. Descending carefully into this recess reveals a choice: a steep crack to climb directly up or an adjacent face to the left offering good holds. Both lines are short but engaging, ending at a pair of bolted rappel anchors atop the wall. The climb continues past this point, moving upward along a steeper wall section that features two more bolted anchors before culminating at a final anchor at the top of the cliff. Here, the landscape unfolds into a scree bowl on your left, offering a natural resting spot and a crossing point to decide the final variation.

The climb branches into two options beyond the scree bowl. The Right Variation, recommended for those seeking a longer and slightly more challenging experience, climbs several additional leads along a prominent rib, pushing grades up to 5.7. Although not personally documented, this route promises steady alpine exposure with progressively sustained difficulties. Alternatively, the Left Variation takes a more direct path crossing the scree and ascending a rib to the left, wrapping up the climb in one to two leads with manageable terrain. Both options conclude with a steep final section protected by three bolted anchors, guiding climbers to the summit of Eisenhower Tower.

The limestone here is notably reliable and well-formed, a pleasant surprise in the Rockies, providing solid holds and consistent edges. The route requires conventional trad gear for protection, although specific recommendations are scarce. Expect to place medium-sized cams and nuts carefully throughout the less bolted sections, while relying on fixed anchors for rappels. The exposure and alpine environment demand climbers bring layers for rapidly changing weather, sturdy footwear with good edging ability, and a helmet for rockfall. Early summer through early fall offers the best climbing window, with longer daylight hours and more stable conditions.

Accessing Eisenhower Tower is straightforward for an alpine approach: a moderate hike from the Castle Mountain trailhead through subalpine fir and larch forests opens views across rugged peaks and valleys. The approach trail leads to the base of the Dragon's Back in just under an hour, offering a chance to transition smoothly from hiking boots to climbing shoes. This manageable yet wild setting invites climbers of intermediate skill levels to enjoy high alpine terrain without excessive technical demands or committing to prolonged multi-pitch routes.

As you climb, the wind speaks across the limestone, urging climbers onward, while the surrounding peaks keep a watchful silence. The South East Face is a blend of careful footwork, mental focus, and respect for the mountain’s enduring presence. Equipped with solid beta, route awareness, and a readiness to adjust to alpine conditions, climbers will find this route a rewarding introduction to the challenges and beauty of Banff National Park’s climbing scene.