Rising sharply within the alpine reach of Rocky Mountain National Park, The Example presents climbers with a rare chance to test their skills on a tall, striped face of impeccable gneiss rock. This distinctive wall faces upcanyon, catching the morning light and inviting early ascents where the rock’s texture promises solid holds and clean movement. The Example’s unique moderate problem offers a breath of fresh alpine air for boulderers seeking a challenge that balances technical finesse with approachable difficulty.

Access to The Example is straightforward yet demands respect for the delicate environment. Situated only minutes upcanyon from the popular Meadow trailhead, the approach crosses hard-packed surfaces and well-established trails. This ease of access belies the fragile alpine setting, a habitat where every footstep counts. Visitors are urged to follow strict Leave No Trace principles – no stashing pads, no altering landings or vegetation, and always brushing chalk after climbs. RMNP’s rangers are vigilant about minimizing human impact here, especially given the seasonal raptor closures between mid-February and July to protect nesting birds.

The high alpine atmosphere lends itself to a serene climbing experience set against sweeping views and the crisp air of Colorado’s mountains. While The Example does not boast multiple routes, its signature problem attracts climbers eager to tackle one of RMNP’s few moderate bouldering challenges on high-quality gneiss. Nearby, the area known as Chaos Canyon Bouldering provides a larger backcountry context, but the standout focus here remains The Example.

Classic climbs in this section include The Example itself (rated V1), highly regarded among locals and visitors alike for its clean features and solid rating. Climbers comfortable around the V1 grade will find this problem a rewarding pursuit, while newcomers gain a taste of alpine bouldering’s purity without excessive risk or technical extremes.

Weather here can be unpredictable, with classic Colorado highs and lows fluctuating seasonally — the best climbing season generally stretches from late summer through early fall when drier conditions prevail. Morning climbs on the east-facing wall catch the warming sun and dry rock quickly, maximizing your window for quality sends. The breathtaking alpine environment, combined with an emphasis on respectful, low-impact climbing, makes this an ideal destination for those eager to blend adventure with conservation.

When planning your visit, pack efficiently for alpine conditions and carry enough pads to protect the delicate landings without disturbing the fragile ground. Storing gear on rocks rather than dirt protects native vegetation, and maintaining a quiet, low-profile approach helps preserve the area’s natural calm. This careful etiquette ensures the climbing experience remains available to future generations of adventurers seeking the same pristine conditions.

Whether you're taking on The Example’s single classic problem or scouting the surrounding boulders in Upper Chaos Canyon, this alpine venue is a reminder that climbing in RMNP requires more than physical preparation — it demands respect for the land and its seasonal rhythms. By observing closures and treading lightly, you’ll deepen your connection to this extraordinary vertical playground while preserving its rugged beauty.

Bring your pads, leave no trace, and prepare to stand face to face with gneiss that calls for crisp moves under alpine skies. The Example isn’t just a climb — it’s a brief immersion in a fragile wilderness where every successful send feels like a small victory shared with the mountain.