Rock Climbing in Colorado Springs Parks

Technical climbing is permitted. Technical climbing is defined as climbing on a rock formation in parties of two or more, using proper equipment, which shall, as a minimum, consist of a rope specifically designed for climbing which meets or exceeds the current minimum standards of the Union International Alpinist Association (UIAA); carabineers to clip to the fixed protection (piton, expansion bolt, or eye bolt previously placed in the rock); and/or an assortment of removable chocks or camming devices to adequately protect the leader's ascent and to allow the climb to be safely seconded.

Rock Scrambling is prohibited.   Rock Scrambling is defined as climbing on a rock formation more than ten feet above its base without using proper equipment.

Sport Rappelling is defined as hiking or walking to the top of or edge of any rock formation or structure and rappelling downward. Sport Rappelling is only allowed in North Cheyenne Cañon Park.  Rappelling in the other parks shall only be performed in conjunction with ascents by technical climbers. 

Bouldering is permitted except on Sentinel Rock, Red and White Twin Spires, Signature Rock, and on the South face of North Gateway Rocks in the Garden of the Gods.   Bouldering is defined as climbing or traversing on smaller rocks or at the base of a larger rock formation to a maximum or height of ten feet (10') above the base of the rock.

(at approved sites) Refrain from placing additional permanent protection (pitons, expansion bolts, etc.) in the rock unless absolutely necessary for safety reasons.

Chalk or a chalk substitute of any kind or color cannot be used when climbing in Garden of the Gods Park. Climbing chalk was previously banned, however, this rule change now includes the restriction of all chalk substitutes in order to help preserve the natural beauty of the rock formations. The change has become necessary due to an increase in climbing activity and chalk use in the park.

Climbing near raptor nesting sites is prohibited. Climbing near migrating white-throated swift roosting sites are also prohibited. Seasonal closures of routes near nesting sites will be posted at the trailhead leading to the climb. Seasonal closures will normally include but are not limited to, sections of the east faces of Gray Rock and North Gateway Rock from April 1st through July 31st and the west face of the north end of North Gateway Rock (Tower of Babel) from September 1st to October 31st. Permanent slings may be left only at the belay points where necessary for safety reasons. Any webbing left on the rock surface must match the color of the rock. 

All of the rules entitled "General Technical Climbing Rules" apply to RRCOS. Technical climbing at Red Rock Canyon Open Space (RRCOS) is limited to the main section of Red Rock Canyon that leads south from the shelter.  No technical climbing is permitted in the historic quarry. Technical climbing is not permitted in other areas of RRCOS.RRCOS is a sandstone climbing area with approximately 80 established routes.  Climbers shall utilize only these established routes to minimize the risks of environmental damage.  As a sandstone climbing area, climbers should keep in mind that in addition to the typical climbing risks, there will be a greater-than-normal risk of holds breaking off, even on established routes.  Use of a climbing helmet by both the climber and the belayer is recommended. Established routes are set up with bolted rappel and lowering anchors below the cliff tops.  Climbers must not leave colored slings on the walls except in case of an emergency. New route development at RRCOS is a managed process.  Therefore, no new fixed protection is to be placed at RRCOS without going through an approval process.  At the climber's discretion, individual bolts may be replaced for safety reasons.  For more information on establishing new routes, contact the Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department at 719-385-5940.  Ask for contact information regarding the Red Rock Canyon Climber's Committee.  Any new routes will be reviewed through a climbing committee process. Final approval will be made by the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Service Department.

Climbers should schedule and conduct their climbs during the daylight hours.  Though it is recognized that some climbs may not end until after nightfall due to unexpected difficulties, the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Department strongly discourages climbers from deliberately planning and executing night climbs. Although there are no age limitations for rock climbing, all climbers including children must register.  Minors are strongly encouraged to be accompanied by a registered adult rock climber. Use approved established trails to access technical climbs. Temporary slings may be left in the event a climber must lower off a route unexpectedly due to weather or failure to reach an established ascent anchor.  The subsequent removal of temporary slings is the responsibility of all technical climbers. Climbing after rain, snow or freezing temperatures may unnaturally hasten the deterioration of rock surfaces. Climbers are asked to refrain from climbing on any formation that appears visually wet or in a frosted condition. Sandstone is Fragile When Wet Please Help Preserve the Rock Climbs and Avoid Injury Wet sandstone breaks and erodes easily. Rapid degradation of climbs, injuries and at least one fatality are linked to climbing on wet rock. A bone-dry surface can hide fragile, wet rock underneath. Rule of Thumb for deciding to climb or not: If the ground is saturated, the rock might be too hidden beneath a dry layer. Any wet patch on the rock means it is still too wet to climb. The ultimate (groove) test: Look for ledges that collect sand.  If it is wet below the surface sand, the rock is wet and weak, so climb another place or another day. There is no reliable rule of thumb for how long to wait after rain or snowmelt. Factors that can delay drying: High humidity (Rain lasting for hours can do more than a torrential rainstorm) Cold temperatures  (Snow, especially wet and long-lasting, have a high impact) Little or no wind Think Alternative Locations: North Cheyenne Cañon Park, 11 Mile Canyon, Castlewood Canyon, Shelf Road or Climbing Gyms.

The failure of any climber to abide by the rules in Sections 1 and 2 above shall be subject, upon conviction, to a maximum five hundred dollar ($500.00) fine, loss of climbing privileges for twelve (12) months, or both.