Prospect Mountain

Description 

This is a small mountain located in the middle of Estes Park. Its summit is 8900 ft and can be accessed via for a fee via a vintage cable car during warm months of the year. There is even a gift shop & snack bar on top. Note, there are a bunch of mountain lions known to frequent these slopes. Watch your kids and smaller climbing partners!

On its slopes, you can find a bunch of small crags, some of which have published routes on them, like the southern crags of Dihedral Rock, Shield Rock, The Fin, The Thimble, The Needle, and The Thumb. Apparently, some of these crags may be on private property. There are other crags on this mountain which have probably have been climbed by wandering souls. While this area can hardly be considered a destination for climbers, inclement weather, limited time, kids, when your kids are competing at the Hunter Jumper competitions, and short approaches might coax a wander in the area.

There are routes here which vary from 1-2 pitches, 0 to 2 stars, 5.0 to 5.13, gear to bolts, all on gneiss and granite outcrops. The north, west, & east faces do see a bit of moisture, so you may find healthy stretches of lichen on these faces.

You may find some guided groups in the area due to the ease of access, low-end routes, and general lack of competition for routes here. Close-in parking is quite limited (probably 8 cars max).

Consider bringing a trash bag to help pick up debris left by partiers in the area.

Getting There 

In Estes Park, drive Mary's Lake Rd or CO Hwy 7 to Peak View Drive towards the south side of the mountain. Drive uphill on Curry (dirt road). Do not block the gate when you park! Consider driving compact vehicles.

The Classics