Explore Cheyenne Canyon’s shaded granite climbs with expert-guided ascents suitable for ages 8 and up. Choose between the technical Cracks Parallel or the scenic Army Route for a thrilling Colorado climbing experience.
Explore Cheyenne Canyon’s shaded granite climbs with expert-guided ascents suitable for ages 8 and up. Choose between the technical Cracks Parallel or the scenic Army Route for a thrilling Colorado climbing experience.
Book with Colorado Climbing Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Colorado Climbing Company · Colorado Springs, Colorado
Located just south of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Cheyenne Canyon offers climbers a less-crowded alternative to the region’s more famous formations. This granite-studded playground is popular among locals for good reason: its shaded slab climbs shelter you from the midday sun while providing access to some of the area’s best traditional rock routes. At the heart of this experience lies the choice between two iconic climbs that perfectly showcase the canyon’s vertical variety and stunning natural scenery.
Visitors can opt for the Cracks Parallel route, a two-pitch, 5.7-grade climb well-suited for those seeking a steady progression in difficulty. The route pushes your balance and technique, especially on its final moves, where precision footing and hand placement become key. Alternatively, the Army Route offers a three-pitch challenge rated at 5.6. Climbers will navigate a fascinating mix of cracks, faces, and roofs, ultimately summiting the Pinnacle formation. From here, sweeping views of the canyon and the cityscape of Colorado Springs unfold, blending nature with urban elements in a way unique to this region.
Guided by AMGA-certified instructors, this experience is designed for climbers aged 8 and up, making it accessible for families and small groups up to three. The Colorado Climbing Company equips each participant with all necessary gear, including ropes, carabiners, harnesses, helmets, shoes, and belay devices. This careful preparation ensures safety without compromising the thrill of self-propelling upward.
Cheyenne Canyon’s geology leans heavily on granite—a rough, solid foundation that has enticed climbers for generations. The canyon itself has a rich backstory, known locally as a retreat from the urban bustle. Its mix of natural beauty and proximity to Colorado Springs has made it a treasured spot for both day adventurers and seasoned climbers.
Besides the climbs, visitors can explore nearby trails or simply enjoy the balance of shade and sun in this spectacular natural setting. Be prepared with your own transportation and snacks, as amenities are limited nearby.
Whether you’re seeking your first multi-pitch experience or a classic route with gratifying views, Cheyenne Canyon Classic Climbs offers a blend of challenge, beauty, and local flavor that stands out in the Colorado climbing scene. This trip is more than a climb—it's a chance to connect with a community passionate about vertical adventure and the breathtaking landscapes that surround Colorado Springs.
moderate.
6–8 hours.
Participants should be comfortable with multi-pitch climbs and in good physical shape for moderate exertion.
Participants must be at least 8 years old to join the climbs.
Basic climbing skills are recommended as you will be on multi-pitch routes, but guides provide instruction as needed.
Yes, all group and individual climbing gear including harness, helmet, and shoes are supplied by the guide service.
Beginners with basic experience or climbing fitness are welcome, especially on the easier routes.
Groups are limited to up to 3 people for personalized instruction and safety.
Guests should bring transportation, personal snacks, water, clothing layers, and gratuities for guides.
Cheyenne Canyon has long served as a beloved retreat area for locals, featuring trails developed in the early 1900s to provide urban residents access to nature.
The area promotes Leave No Trace principles with specific regulations to protect native plants and maintain safe climbing access.
Colorado Climbing Company runs guided climbing, ice climbing, mountaineering, and backcountry skiing trips and instructional courses across Colorado and in select national parks. The company’s offerings include introductory classes like Introduction to Rock Climbing and Gym to Crag, technical courses such as Learn to Lead Sport Climb Outdoors and Learn to Lead Traditional Climbs, and advanced seminars including Steep Ice and Mixed Technique and Climbing 301 — Climbing Big Things. Trips span diverse Colorado areas and beyond, with options in Rocky Mountain National Park, Silverton, Lake City, Ouray, Denver/Golden, Boulder/Estes Park, Telluride, Gunnison, Grand Junction, and San Juan ranges. Seasonal programming covers ice climbing at venues like Lake City Ice Park and guided backcountry ski and splitboard touring in Silverton and the Alpine Loop near Lake City. Offerings range from half-day guided ice climbs to multi-day alpine ascents and expedition preparation courses. Participants can choose guided experiences or technical instruction tailored to levels from beginner to advanced. Course titles and guided day trips reflect explicit instruction and guided formats, including avalanche and glacier-focused topics such as Crevasse Rescue and Glacier Travel and Private Custom Avalanche Instructions. Colorado Climbing Company presents a wide catalog of site-specific classic climbs, ski descents, and intensive seminars to support skill development and safe mountain travel.
Book with Colorado Climbing Company