This is one of the biggest rocks of the The Crags along with the Upper Great Face. This lies on the right south side of the Crags. This crag contains routes up to 4 pitches. It seemed faintly reminiscent of an easier version of Deer Ridge Buttress. Certainly, this is one of the rocks that catches your eye looking at this collection of rocks from co Hwy 7 or the Lily Lake area. Abundant in holds and full of dihedrals, there are more lines to be done for trad climbers. There are moments when you can imagine yourself slightly higher in the park on a big sibling of this rock, Hallett Peak. Broader than tall, this crag is split into 2 main faces by the Central Buttress, a blunt arete, rising from the nadir of the face. Descents are best made by skirting the N side of the crag on a mix of trail and boulders.
Getting There
From Estes, drive south on CO Hwy 7 to the Lily Lake visitor center. Drive uphill and past this V.C. to the west and then quickly turn south on the road and follow brief switchbacks on gravel. Park near the end of the road. Best to have a guidebook with pictures (Kimball's, Rossiter's, or Gillett's). From here, there is a well marked trail that you start upon. I believe this continues to the summit of Twin Sister to the South. When the trail seems to be heading south, away from the crags, break off in a ENE direction. Head uphill through lightly forested slopes. When the trees clear, the challenge of figuring which rock is which comes next. This crag will likely still be somewhat left (N) of your exit from the forest. Hike/scramble/boulder hop to its base. This approach, to me, feels easier than the approach to the left (N) end of the Crags. Plan on 45-75 min to approach depending on your urgency.
Oh yeah, based upon the signage, this area may be open to hunters in the fall. Think bright.
Lower Great Face
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