Rock Climbing North Table Mountain with Front Range Climbing
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness needed for hiking short distances and moderate climbing efforts.
Overview
North Table Mountain’s basalt cliffs provide accessible climbing just outside Denver. Front Range Climbing Company’s 4-hour half-day trip suits all skill levels seeking hands-on guidance and sweeping mountain views.
North Table Mountain: ½ Day
4 Hours • All experience levels
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
The long basalt cliff band of North Table Mountain is one of the most popular climbing areas near Denver.
About
Overlooking the city of Golden and the Coors Brewery, North Table Mountain, (aka Golden Cliffs) offers hundreds of sunny climbing routes for beginners and experts.
Front Range Climbing Company loves climbing here with the wide range of easy and moderately rated routes, ensuring that you get in lots of fun climbing.
North Table Mountain is also easily accessed from Denver by highway and major roads. After you're done climbing, you can stop in for a tour of the Coors Brewery or visit the American Mountaineering Museum at the American Alpine Club's headquarters in Golden.
Duration
4 Hours
What to Bring
• Water FRCC highly recommends bringing 2 quarts (2-3 Liters) of water. • Food (Snacks / Lunch) Along with the water, keeping your body fueled throughout your trip will let you focus on climbing and not your stomach. Food a simple as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to high tech energy bars will keep you going throughout your trip. • Small Backpack A small backpack will allow you to carry your food, water, and other items you will need for the day. A backpack versus a handbag will let you freely use your hands while moving around the climbing areas. • Sneakers / Approach Shoes / Chaco Sandals ™ Most of the climbing areas require a slight hike from the parking area to reach your climbs. FRCC suggests a pair of sturdy sneakers, approach shoes, or Chacos™ to safely get you to the climbs. You can call our office or ask your guide if your footwear will be appropriate for your climbing destination. • Sunscreen The sun can be intense at all of our climbing locations. FRCC recommends bringing sunscreen to prevent sunburns and other potential sun related issues. • Sunglasses [optional] Sunglasses will help protect your eyes from the sun throughout the day. • Camera [optional] Pictures will help you remember your trip. If you have a camera, bring it along and snap away. • Rain Jacket Summer thunderstorms can occur at any time in Colorado. A light rain jacket will keep you dry in the event of rain.
Adventure Tips
Bring plenty of water
Carry at least 2 liters of water to stay hydrated under the high desert sun and during physical exertion.
Wear sturdy approach footwear
Good sneakers or approach shoes help you tackle the rocky hike from the parking area to climbing routes safely.
Use sunscreen liberally
The exposed basalt cliffs and Colorado’s high altitude intensify sun exposure, so apply sunscreen before setting out and reapply often.
Check weather forecasts for thunderstorms
Afternoon summer storms can roll in quickly—plan climbs for early in the day and pack a lightweight rain jacket.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Red-tailed hawks
History
North Table Mountain’s basalt cliffs formed from volcanic lava flows that shaped the region millions of years ago, influencing local ecosystems and climbing formations.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile desert flora and maintain clean climbing areas.
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Adventure Hotspots in Denver
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Climbing shoes
Specialized footwear ensures secure footing on basalt and enhances climbing performance.
Helmet
Protects from potential falling debris and bumps on rocky terrain.
Lightweight rain jacket
Useful for sudden thunderstorms common in the Front Range, especially during summer afternoons.
summer|spring|fall specific
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from Colorado’s intense UV exposure at altitude.
all specific